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True dental emergencies which
require immediate attention are quite rare, but the following we would
consider as emergencies:
- Uncontrolled Bleeding -
normally bleeding can be stopped by simply applying pressure. Take
a clean handkerchief, roll into a small ball, dampen slightly and
bite or apply pressure with your finger for at least five minutes(
making sure that you check a clock). Then check if the bleeding
has stopped. If it has failed to stop, repeat the above process
and then contact the surgery if during normal working hours.
Outside of these hours go straight to the casualty department of
your nearest hospital.
- Severe Spreading Swelling
- a swelling that makes breathing or swallowing difficult, dial
999 and ask for an ambulance. If swelling does not effect
breathing or swallowing then contact the surgery if during normal
working hours. Outside of these hours go straight to the casualty
department of your nearest hospital.
- Trauma Involving Teeth or Face
- children and young adults may completely dislodge a tooth. The
earlier it is replaced in the socket the better. If sterile saline
is available pick up tooth by the crown not the root, and rinse
gently, do not scrub, push back into socket ensuring that it is
the correct way round. If done quickly, no anaesthetic is
necessary. If saline is not available, rinse with milk and
re-implant. Contact the surgery immediately or go to casualty. If
no one is prepared to reposition tooth, it must be kept moist, do
not disinfect or scrub, place in a small container again with milk
or saline and proceed to the practice or casualty. If at casualty,
stress the need to be seen by a dentist if possible. If the tooth
is fractured, but the root is in place, contact the practice or
PCT emergency clinic for an urgent appointment.
- Facial Lacerations -
simple facial lacerations can be dealt with at the practice. For
more severe injuries, it is best to go straight to the casualty
department of your nearest hospital.
All other dental conditions are
treated as urgent and are assessed by our experienced receptionists
who will allocate the soonest appropriate appointment.
We pride ourselves as being able to
see most urgent cases within 24 hours, during the working week. |
