A throbbing toothache at midnight doesn’t care about your schedule. Neither does a cracked tooth from biting down on something you shouldn’t have. If you’re in Diggers Rest and dealing with a dental emergency, the closest experienced option is Sunbury Dental House, about 10 minutes up the Calder Freeway.
We keep same-day appointments available specifically for emergencies. No waiting days in pain while you try to get an opening somewhere. Call us, and we’ll get you in as quickly as we can.
Is It Actually an Emergency?
Some things need attention today. Others can wait a day or two. Here’s how to tell:
Get to a dentist today if you have:
- A toothache so bad that over-the-counter painkillers aren’t touching it
- A knocked-out tooth (every minute counts with these)
- A cracked or broken tooth with sharp edges or exposed nerve
- Swelling in your face, jaw, or gums
- Bleeding that won’t stop
- Signs of infection: fever, swelling, pus, or a foul taste
Can probably wait 24-48 hours:
- Mild sensitivity to hot or cold
- A small chip with no pain
- A slightly loose filling that isn’t bothering you
The honest answer? If you’re not sure, call us. We’d much rather tell you it can wait than have you sitting at home with an abscess getting worse.
First Aid While You’re on Your Way
What you do in the first 30 minutes after a dental emergency can genuinely affect the outcome. Here’s what to do for the most common situations.
Knocked-out tooth: This is the big one. Pick the tooth up by the white part (the crown), not the root. If it looks clean, try gently pushing it back into the socket and biting on a cloth to hold it. If you can’t get it back in, drop it into a glass of milk. Not water. Milk. Then get to us within 30 minutes if at all possible. The faster you act, the better the chances of saving the tooth.
Severe toothache: Rinse with warm salt water (half a teaspoon in a glass). Take ibuprofen as directed on the packet. Don’t put aspirin directly on the gum, it burns the tissue. If your face is swelling, hold a cold compress on the outside of your cheek, 10 minutes on, 10 minutes off.
Broken tooth: Rinse gently, save any pieces, and avoid chewing on that side. A cold compress helps with swelling. Cover any sharp edges with dental wax or even sugar-free gum to protect your tongue and cheeks.
Lost filling or crown: If you still have the crown, clean it and try placing it back on with dental cement from the chemist. Don’t use super glue. Avoid chewing on that side and book in as soon as you can.
What Happens When You Get Here
You won’t be left sitting in the waiting room in pain. We’ll assess you straight away, take any X-rays we need, and explain exactly what’s going on before we do anything. No surprises.
Treatment depends on the situation. A cracked tooth might need bonding or a temporary crown. An infection might need antibiotics and drainage. A severe toothache could mean root canal treatment or extraction. Whatever it is, we’ll walk you through your options clearly so you can make an informed decision, even when you’re stressed.
If follow-up treatment is needed after the emergency is managed, we’ll schedule that separately and make sure you know exactly what’s involved and what it’ll cost. Emergency care is about getting you out of pain and preventing further damage. The definitive fix can come once everything has settled.
And if you’re anxious on top of being in pain? That’s completely understandable. A dental emergency is stressful enough without adding fear into the mix. We’re experienced in caring for nervous patients, and sedation options are available if you need them.
Will It Cost a Fortune?
Nobody wants to think about money when they’re in agony, but it’s a fair question. Emergency dental fees depend on what treatment you need. A simple temporary filling is a different investment to an emergency root canal.
We’ll explain the cost before starting any treatment, so there are no bill shocks. We accept all major health funds and can process your claim on the spot. Flexible payment plans are also available if you need to spread the cost.
When We’re Open (And What to Do After Hours)
Sunbury Dental House is open Monday to Thursday 8am to 7pm, Friday 8am to 6pm, and Saturday 8am to 4pm. For Diggers Rest residents, that means you can reach us quickly during most of the week.
For after-hours emergencies, if you’re experiencing uncontrolled bleeding, severe swelling affecting your breathing, or any situation that feels life-threatening, go straight to your nearest emergency department or call 000.
Ready for help now? Call us to book a same-day emergency appointment. We’re here for you.
