Toothache in the middle of the night? Broken tooth on the weekend? Dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them. That’s why having access to an emergency dentist in Aberdeen is so important. When pain strikes, you need fast relief from someone who knows exactly what to do.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what counts as a dental emergency, where to find help in Aberdeen, and how to deal with dental issues before seeing a dentist.
What Is a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is any issue with your teeth, mouth, or gums that needs urgent treatment. If you are in pain, bleeding, or have a broken tooth, that could count as an emergency. Unlike a routine check-up, emergencies need fast action to stop pain, prevent infection, or save a tooth.
Common emergencies include:
- Sudden, severe toothache
- Knocked-out or broken teeth
- Swelling in the gums or face
- Bleeding that won’t stop
- Lost fillings or crowns causing pain
- Abscesses or signs of infection
If any of these sound familiar, it’s time to call an emergency dentist in Aberdeen.
When to Call an Emergency Dentist
Knowing when to call can be tricky. Some dental problems feel serious but can wait a day or two. Others need care right away. As a general rule, call an emergency dentist if:
- You are in strong pain that doesn’t go away
- You have a broken tooth that cuts your tongue or lips
- You notice swelling or pus, which may mean infection
- Your tooth has been knocked out — the sooner it’s treated, the better the chance of saving it
When in doubt, it’s always best to call. The dental team can let you know what to do next.
How to Find an Emergency Dentist in Aberdeen
There are a few ways to find help fast in Aberdeen:
- Call your usual dental clinic — Many have emergency slots during the day.
- Use NHS 24 by dialling 111 if it’s outside regular hours. They can guide you to urgent care.
- Check online for local clinics offering same-day appointments.
Some dental practices offer evening or weekend services, so don’t wait if you’re in pain. Help is available.
What to Expect at an Emergency Dental Appointment
When you arrive, the dentist will ask about your symptoms. They’ll likely take a quick look at your mouth, then decide on the best treatment to ease your pain or stop the problem.
You might get:
- Pain relief
- A temporary filling or crown
- Tooth extraction
- Antibiotics if there’s an infection
- Advice on what to do next
The goal is to make you comfortable and stop the problem from getting worse. A follow-up visit may be needed later for more complete treatment.
Cost of Emergency Dental Care in Aberdeen
In Scotland, emergency dental care may be free or low-cost if you’re seen through the NHS. However, private emergency services are also available, especially after hours or at weekends.
If you’re unsure, always ask about the costs before your treatment begins. NHS charges follow a set band system, so you’ll know what to expect.
How to Prevent Dental Emergencies
While not all dental problems can be avoided, many can with good habits. Here are a few tips to help keep your teeth in good shape:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily to remove food and plaque
- Avoid chewing ice or hard sweets
- Wear a mouthguard if you play sports
- Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups
These small steps can stop little problems from turning into emergencies.
What to Do Before Seeing the Dentist
If you can’t see the dentist right away, here’s what you can do at home to feel better:
- Toothache: Rinse with warm salt water and take painkillers like paracetamol.
- Swelling: Apply a cold compress to your cheek to reduce swelling.
- Knocked-out tooth: Hold the tooth by the crown (not the root), rinse it gently, and try placing it back in the socket. If not, keep it in milk and see a dentist quickly.
- Broken tooth: Rinse your mouth and cover any sharp edges with dental wax or sugar-free gum.
These steps won’t fix the problem, but they can help until you get professional care.
Final Thoughts
Finding an emergency dentist in Aberdeen is vital when dental trouble strikes. Whether it’s a sharp pain, broken tooth, or swelling, don’t delay getting the help you need. With skilled professionals and caring service, relief is just a phone call away.
Dental Oldmachar Dental Care can feel scary, but with the right help and advice, you’ll be smiling again in no time.
