Dental Emergencies: What to Do in the First 60 Minutes

Every year, more than 100,000 people in England visit A&E for dental pain—including over 30,000 children. Many of these emergencies could be treated faster and more effectively by a dentist, especially in the first hour. Knowing what to do during that time can save your tooth—and stop pain from getting worse.

To speak to our team and find out more, please call us on 01622 677 100 or email us at gabrielshilldental@gmail.com

What Should You Do If A Tooth Breaks Or Gets Knocked Out?

If you break a tooth, stay calm. A chip or crack can wait a few hours, but a tooth that’s been knocked out is very urgent. Pick it up by the top (the crown), not the root. Rinse it gently in milk or saline. Try to place it back in the socket if you can. If not, keep it in a glass of milk and get to a dentist straight away.

At Gabriel’s Hill Dental Practice, the team is trained to handle trauma cases quickly. They can reinsert the tooth, secure it in place, and relieve pain on the spot.

Is A Lost Crown Or Filling An Emergency?

If a crown or filling falls out, it’s usually not dangerous, but it can be very sensitive. You may feel pain when eating or drinking. Cover the area with clove oil or orthodontic wax to ease the pain, and avoid chewing on that side.

Still, don’t wait too long. A gap in the tooth can let in bacteria and cause decay. Gabriel’s Hill offers same-day appointments and even lets you send in a photo through their website. That way, the dentist can assess the problem before you arrive.

How Serious Is A Dental Abscess?

A dental abscess is a serious infection. You may notice swelling in the face or gums, pain that gets worse over time, or a bad taste in the mouth. If you have trouble swallowing or develop a fever, act quickly—these signs mean the infection could be spreading.

Warm salt-water rinses may help, but you’ll still need urgent treatment. At Gabriel’s Hill, dentists can drain the abscess and start antibiotics straight away. In some cases, they can begin root canal treatment on the same day to stop the infection at its source.

What Else Should You Do In The First Hour?

Start with basic first aid: use a cold pack for swelling and take over-the-counter pain relief like paracetamol or ibuprofen. Avoid hot drinks and don’t poke the area with your tongue. Most importantly, call a dentist—not A&E.

Gabriel’s Hill Dental Practice is ready to help with emergencies. They have digital X-rays, same-day slots, evening hours, and clear pricing. Their 24-hour line means you can always reach someone, even after hours.

In a dental emergency, every minute matters. Call Gabriel’s Hill Dental Practice and get fast, expert help—before pain turns into something more serious.