What counts as a dental emergency
If you have sharp pain that will not settle, swelling in the face or gums, bleeding that keeps going, or a tooth that has been knocked out, treat it as urgent. A broken filling with severe sensitivity can wait a little longer, but if the pain is stopping you from sleeping, eating or speaking properly, you should call us as soon as you can.
In Sandton and the surrounding areas, patients often try to push through until the weekend and that can make things worse. Infection can spread, a crack can deepen, and a loose tooth may become harder to save. If you are unsure, rather call and explain what is happening, even if it feels like a minor problem at first.
What to do in the first 30 minutes
Act calmly and keep the area clean. Do not put aspirin directly on the gum, do not use sharp objects to pick at the tooth, and do not apply heat to swelling. If there is bleeding, use clean gauze or a folded cloth and bite gently for 10 to 15 minutes. If you have facial swelling, a cold compress on the outside of the cheek can help reduce discomfort.
- Rinse gently with warm salt water if the mouth is sore or dirty.
- Take note of where the pain started and whether it is worse with hot, cold, biting or pressure.
- If a filling, crown or wire has come loose, keep the piece safe and bring it with you.
- Phone before arriving so we can advise on the next step and prepare for your visit.
If a tooth has been knocked out or chipped
For a knocked-out adult tooth, hold it by the crown, not the root. If it is dirty, rinse it lightly with clean water, but do not scrub it. If possible, place it back in the socket and hold it there with gentle pressure. If that is not possible, store it in milk or in your saliva and get to a dentist quickly, time matters here.
For a chipped or fractured tooth, keep the broken piece if you can. Avoid chewing on that side and stick to soft foods until you are seen. A fracture may look small but the nerve inside can still be affected, especially if the tooth has been hit hard or is sensitive to cold air.
- Do not wait for the pain to disappear before seeking help.
- Keep children calm and avoid letting them bite on hard food after trauma.
- If there is a cut to the lip or tongue that will not stop bleeding, seek urgent care.
Swelling, infection and fever need prompt attention
Swelling around a tooth, jaw or cheek can point to infection. If you also have fever, a bad taste in the mouth, trouble opening your mouth, or pain when swallowing, you should contact us on the same day. In some cases infection can spread quickly and cause serious complications, so do not rely on painkillers alone.
Until you are seen, keep your head slightly raised, sip water and avoid alcohol. If you have a history of heart problems, diabetes, immune concerns or you are pregnant, please mention it when you call because this may affect treatment planning and medication choices.
How Techno-Dent Clinic handles urgent visits
Our Sandton team, led by Dr Sibusiso Mthembu, can guide you through urgent dental care and arrange the right next step based on your symptoms. That may mean an emergency exam, x-rays, pain control, infection management, temporary repair, or planning for follow-up treatment such as a root canal, extraction or replacement work. We also offer sedation options where suitable, especially for patients who are anxious or in significant discomfort.
We help patients from Sandton, Bryanston, Rivonia, Morningside, Fourways and Rosebank. If you phone from work in the city or from home during load-shedding, keep your phone nearby and give us a clear description of the problem. A quick call can save time and help us prepare the right materials before you arrive.
What to bring and how to prepare for the appointment
Bring your ID, medical aid details if you have them, a list of medicines, and the broken tooth or dental piece if it was saved. Wear something comfortable, and if your jaw is swollen try not to book back-to-back meetings afterwards. If you have children, bring a second adult if possible so you can focus on the appointment and the patient can be supported properly.
- Arrive a little early so we can confirm your details and symptoms.
- Tell us about allergies, blood thinners or previous dental work.
- Eat lightly if you can, unless we advise you to fast for sedation.
- Plan transport home if you are in pain or may need medication.
We give payment guidance before treatment where possible, so you know what to expect. If you are in pain right now, call us and we will talk you through the next steps in plain language.
