What to do in a dental emergency…

Due to the current situation with Covid-19, the practice is closed. We understand that dental emergencies will still happen.

So what should you do if this happens to you?

Emergency Appointments

As the practice is currently closed, our team are working remotely from home. Please always call the practice on 01289 306084. Guidance is changing on a daily basis, so listen to the message carefully as contacts and advice will change.

We do ask that you don’t put yourself, or anyone else at any unnecessary risk. If you’re experiencing a problem and you’re not sure if it requires an emergency appointment please check below.

Do I Need Emergency Treatment?

These questions will help you decide…

Bleeding

1. Following a tooth extraction? If yes, have you bitten on the gauze provided for 15 minutes? If you haven’t, There’s no need to book yet If you have, book an emergency appointment ASAP
2. Is it your gums that are bleeding? If yes, this is not urgent and there is no need to book an appointment.
3. Was the bleeding caused by a blow or other trauma to your mouth? If yes book an appointment as soon as possible.

Swelling

1. Have you noticed any swelling around the tooth or can it be seen on the outside of your face?
2. Does the swelling extend to your eye/neck? If yes, book and emergency appointment as soon as possible.
3. Is the swelling affecting your vision, your breathing or is it preventing you from opening your mouth more than two fingers wide? If yes To any of these, go straight to A&E.

Trauma

1. Has the trauma caused you to experience any loss of consciousness, blurred visin or vomiting? If yes to any of these, go straight to A&E and call the practice.
2. Has the trauma broken a tooth or has the tooth fallen out? If yes to either of these, book an emergency appointment at the practice.

Pain

1. Is the pain making it hard to eat or affecting your sleep? If yes, this may be urgent but if the pain can be managed with pain-relief then consider the risk of attending an appointment before you book.

Is attending an emergency appointment safe for you and others?

If you or anyone in your house is self-isolating, do not book an emergency appointment. If you are experiencing any symptoms, like a continuous cough or a high temperature, do not book an emergency appointment.

If you do need to attend an emergency appointment, please follow the below guidelines:

1. Please come alone, unless you have children and don’t have child care.
2. Please come 10 minutes early to complete a medical form.
3. Please bring reading glasses if you need them.
4. Please bring a list of any medications you take.

The following problems are non-urgent and do not require an emergency appointment:

• Loose or lost crowns, bridges or veneers
• Fractured or loose dentures
• Fractured, loose or displaced fillings
• Chipped teeth with no pain
• Loose wires
• Bleeding gums (As stated above)

Some emergencies may need to be seen at a designated ” Urgent Dental Care Centre” which are being set up with extra safety precautions to avoid the spread of the virus. This may not be in Berwick so be aware you may have to travel for these specialist services.

Stay safe and take care from The Brucegate Team