Emergency dentistry

During the initial examination, the dentist will assess the area of pain or discomfort; this may involve taking x-rays. The dentist will then propose treatment options to resolve the pain. Occasionally, this may only be a temporary solution and you will need to make a follow-up appointment for the definitive treatment.

No, you do not need a referral for emergency dental appointments.

A skilled and experienced dentist.

You may need to have local anaesthetic during your emergency appointment so we advise that you eat something before your visit as your mouth may be numb for a few hours afterwards.

Aftercare instructions will be given at your appointment.

You may be asked to arrange a review or follow up appointment to complete the treatment.

Yes. To those receiving a dental x-ray, we are all exposed to natural background radiation. This comes from the ground, building materials, food and even from outer space (cosmic rays). Each medical x-ray examination gives us a small additional dose on top of this natural background radiation.

Medical radiation doses are way too low to produce immediate harmful effects. The effect of having an x-ray is a possible increase in a lifetime risk of developing cancer.

Despite these slight risks, your doctor believes it is advisable that you should have this examination to avoid missing a potential diagnosis.

However, please notify the dental team if you have had a similar x-ray recently or if you are a woman who is (or might be) pregnant.

Yes, a friend or family member may attend the appointment with you.