Dental problems don’t always follow a steady pattern of development that is simple to plan appointments around. Sometimes unexpected events, pain or trauma can mean that it is urgent that you see a dentist as soon as possible.

If you have persistent bleeding, severe pain that is not alleviated by painkillers or you have serious trauma to your mouth and teeth then you need immediate treatment and should go to Royal Berkshire Hospital Accident & Emergency (although be mindful that this facility has separate A&E departments for children and adults).

If you have had a tooth knocked out then you need to see a 24 hour emergency dentist as soon as possible so that they can try to replant the tooth. You can call the NHS 111 service to find your nearest 24 hour emergency dentist. If possible you can place the tooth back into its socket until you see the dentist or if you have a special container designed for the purpose, put the tooth in that to maintain the right atmosphere for it to remain in a healthy state. Otherwise put the tooth in a glass of milk. Be careful not to touch the tooth more than absolutely necessary and do not attempt to clean it with any detergent products.

For less immediate (although still pressing) problems, you can make an emergency dental appointment. Examples of problems that you might need an emergency dental appointment for include:

• An accident or incident that has damaged your teeth, either moving them out of position or causing them to fracture
• Loss of a crown or filling
• Severe pain, inflammation or bleeding following a dental procedure
• An infection or abscess

We can provide emergency appointments, although we can’t always guarantee that you will be seen as promptly as you would like. If you need an appointment during opening hours we recommend that that you call early in the morning for the best chance of securing an appointment that day.

In the meantime, while you are waiting for your appointment you can take painkillers like paracetamol and ibuprofen to lessen dental pain (avoid aspirin) and you may find that rinsing your mouth with a warm saline solution is helpful. For swelling, a cold compress or ice pack may offer some relief.

If you have a dental emergency outside of opening hours:

• E-mail: info@shine-dental.co.uk — we will get back to you as soon as possible
• Our Denplan patients may call 0800 844 999
• Our Dental Care Plan patients may call 01206 788 816