What should I do if I have a toothache?

If you develop a toothache, the most important step is to contact our clinic to arrange an appointment so the cause of the pain can be professionally assessed. Tooth pain can result from many different factors, including dental decay, infection, cracked teeth, gum problems, or clenching and grinding (bruxism).

At Providence Dental Care in West Lakes, we prioritise assessing dental pain to help find the most appropriate solution for our patients.

Immediate steps for dental pain

While waiting for your appointment at our Charles Street clinic:

  • Avoid chewing on the affected side to prevent further irritation or potential damage.
  • Over-the-counter pain relief may provide temporary comfort if it is appropriate for your medical history, but this should not be relied upon as a long-term solution.

When is a toothache an emergency?

If your pain is severe, worsening, associated with facial swelling, or affecting your ability to sleep, it should be assessed as soon as possible. These symptoms can sometimes indicate an underlying infection that requires prompt clinical attention.

The benefit of early assessment

Seeking an early assessment from a dentist often allows dental problems to be managed more simply. Addressing a toothache early helps to reduce the risk of further complications and can often save a tooth that might otherwise require more complex treatment.

For residents in West Lakes and the surrounding Western Suburbs, our team is here to provide the necessary care and guidance to get you back to comfort.