Emergency dental appointments

Dental emergencies can be stressful and often come without warning. Whether you’re experiencing pain, swelling, trauma, or sudden changes to a tooth or restoration, an emergency dental appointment allows us to assess the situation promptly and provide appropriate care.

At Harley Private Dental, emergency appointments are handled with care, clarity, and a focus on relieving discomfort and stabilising the issue.

What is a dental emergency?

A dental emergency is any situation that requires prompt attention to relieve pain, manage infection, or prevent further damage to teeth or gums.

Emergency appointments are designed to:

  • Assess the cause of the problem
  • Relieve pain or discomfort
  • Manage infection or inflammation
  • Stabilise the tooth or surrounding area
  • Plan any necessary follow-up treatment

When should I book an emergency appointment?

You should consider an emergency dental appointment if you are experiencing:

  • Severe or persistent toothache
  • Facial swelling or gum swelling
  • Signs of infection or abscess
  • A broken, cracked, or knocked tooth
  • Sudden sensitivity or pain when biting
  • A lost filling, crown, or bridge causing discomfort
  • Trauma to the mouth or teeth

If you’re unsure whether your situation is an emergency, we recommend contacting the clinic for advice.

What happens during an emergency appointment?

Emergency appointments focus on addressing the immediate problem. This may include:

  1. Assessment and diagnosis
    We assess the affected area, take X-rays if required, and identify the cause of pain or concern.
  2. Pain relief and stabilisation
    Treatment is provided to relieve discomfort, reduce inflammation, or stabilise the tooth where possible.
  3. Next steps
    If further treatment is needed, we’ll explain your options clearly and arrange follow-up care.

The aim is to make you comfortable and provide clarity on what happens next.

We understand emergencies can feel overwhelming

Dental pain or trauma can be upsetting, particularly if it happens suddenly. We take a calm, supportive approach and prioritise clear communication so you feel informed and reassured throughout your visit.

For nervous patients, we:

  • Explain what we’re doing before we begin
  • Work at a steady, gentle pace
  • Check in regularly during treatment
  • Focus on comfort and reassurance

What treatments might be provided during an emergency appointment?

Depending on the issue, emergency care may include:

  • Pain relief
  • Temporary or permanent fillings
  • Treatment for infection
  • Stabilisation of a broken tooth
  • Advice and aftercare guidance

Not all treatment is completed in one visit. Emergency care often focuses on immediate relief, with further treatment planned once the situation is stabilised.

What happens after my emergency appointment?

After your appointment, we’ll provide clear aftercare advice and explain whether follow-up treatment is needed. This may include restorative work, root canal treatment, or replacement of a damaged restoration.

Our team will ensure you understand the next steps before you leave the clinic.

Personalised care starts here

A consultation gives us time to understand your needs, explain your options clearly, and plan care that’s right for you.

Spread the cost of your treatment

We offer finance options through Chrysalis Finance to help make treatment costs more manageable. This allows eligible patients to spread the cost of treatment over time with clear, structured repayments. Finance is available at a representative 14.9% APR, subject to status and approval.

How the finance calculator works

Our finance calculator provides an indicative example of how treatment costs may be spread into monthly payments based on a 14.9% APR. Simply enter the estimated treatment cost and select a repayment term to view a guide price. Figures shown are for illustration only. Final repayment amounts will be confirmed following consultation and finance approval.

Using the calculator does not commit you to treatment or finance. It is designed to help you understand your options clearly, without pressure. Full details, including repayment terms and eligibility, will always be explained before you proceed.

Frequently asked questions

Practical guidance to help you understand our care, treatments, and what to expect.

Will I be seen on the same day?

We aim to see emergency patients as soon as possible. Availability depends on the nature of the emergency and clinic capacity, but we will always offer guidance and prioritise urgent cases.

Will my pain be treated during the appointment?

Yes. Emergency appointments focus on relieving pain and addressing the immediate issue wherever possible.

I’m nervous — can you help?

Yes. We regularly support nervous patients and take a calm, reassuring approach. Let us know how you’re feeling, and we’ll adapt our care to support you.

Is an emergency appointment right for me?

If you are in pain, experiencing swelling, or concerned about sudden changes to your teeth or gums, an emergency appointment is the right place to start. Early assessment can help prevent complications and provide reassurance.

Our wonderful team

Our team includes experienced general dentists and clinicians with specialist skills. Together we deliver a wide range of treatments under one roof.

Our other treatments

Browse all treatments

General dentistry

General dentistry covers routine and preventative dental care, including examinations, hygiene appointments, fillings, crowns, and monitoring of oral health. The aim is to maintain healthy teeth and gums, identify issues early, and reduce the need for more complex treatment.

Cosmetic dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of teeth while maintaining oral health and function. Treatments may include whitening, composite bonding, veneers, and aesthetic restorations designed to create natural-looking, balanced results.