Nobody plans for a dental emergency.
One moment you’re cheering from the sidelines at a junior sporting match. The next, your child has taken an accidental knock and a tooth is lying on the ground.
Or perhaps it’s the middle of the night and a nagging toothache has suddenly become impossible to ignore. Maybe you’ve woken up with swelling in your jaw and aren’t sure whether it can wait until Monday.
These situations happen more often than many people realise, and according to the team at Pure Dentistry in Upper Mount Gravatt, knowing what to do in those first few minutes can make a significant difference to both comfort and long-term outcomes. Emergency dental care is available seven days a week, including most public holidays.
Since 2015, the Brisbane practice has completed more than 120,000 patient appointments, including more than 20,000 emergency dental visits for adults and children, helping patients with everything from severe toothaches and infections to broken teeth, dental trauma and urgent surgical issues.
Here are some of the most common dental emergencies they see — and what you should do if they happen to you or someone in your family.
Not Every Dentist Focuses On Emergency Care
When a dental emergency happens, most people simply want the pain to stop.
But choosing a dentist with experience in emergency treatment can be just as important as seeking treatment quickly.
Dental emergencies often involve more than a routine examination. Severe infections, facial swelling, dental trauma, knocked-out teeth, cracked teeth, surgical extractions and emergency root canal treatment can require a different level of experience, equipment and clinical decision-making.
The team at Pure Dentistry has treated more than 20,000 emergency dental cases since 2015, helping patients with everything from severe toothaches and dental abscesses to sporting injuries, broken teeth and urgent surgical problems.
The clinic’s emergency-focused approach is supported by on-site digital imaging technology, including 3D CBCT imaging and advanced diagnostic tools that can assist with diagnosis and treatment planning where clinically appropriate. For patients in pain, time matters. Having access to a team experienced in managing urgent dental problems can help reduce delays and provide greater confidence when treatment decisions need to be made quickly.
Pure Dentistry is also independently accredited under the Quality Innovation Performance (QIP) Dental Practice Accreditation Program, which assesses practices against nationally recognised safety and quality standards for Australian healthcare services.
A Severe Toothache That Won’t Go Away
Many people assume a toothache will eventually settle down on its own.
Sometimes it does. Often it doesn’t.
A persistent toothache can be caused by deep decay, infection, a cracked tooth, an abscess or inflammation affecting the nerve inside the tooth. What starts as a mild annoyance can quickly become a sleepless night or a weekend spent searching for urgent dental care.
Before seeing a dentist, Pure Dentistry advises patients may consider over-the-counter pain relief such as ibuprofen or paracetamol, if suitable for them, and rinsing gently with warm salt water to help ease discomfort.
The clinic regularly treats patients suffering from severe tooth pain and dental abscesses, with treatment options depending on the cause. In some cases, the tooth can be preserved through root canal treatment. In others, drainage of an infection or extraction may be necessary.
A Knocked-Out Tooth
A knocked-out tooth is one of the few dental emergencies where every minute genuinely matters.
It’s often associated with sport, playground accidents, bike falls and unexpected collisions.
If an adult tooth has been completely knocked out, Pure Dentistry advises attempting to gently place it back into the socket if possible. If this can’t be done, the tooth should be stored in milk or the person’s saliva until professional treatment can be obtained.
One of the most important things to remember is to handle the tooth only by the crown — the visible white portion of the tooth — and never by the root.
For baby teeth, however, the advice is different. Parents should not attempt to reinsert a knocked-out baby tooth, as doing so can damage the developing permanent tooth underneath.
Prompt assessment may improve the chance of preserving an adult tooth and reducing the risk of long-term complications.
Facial Swelling And Dental Infections
Facial swelling is often a sign that an infection is present and should never be ignored.
Many patients are surprised to learn that a dental infection can sometimes spread beyond the affected tooth if left untreated.
Swelling affecting the gums, jaw or face can develop from an untreated tooth infection, gum disease or dental abscess. Left untreated, these conditions can worsen quickly.
If swelling develops, the team at Pure Dentistry recommends keeping your head elevated and applying a cold compress to the outside of the face. Heat should be avoided, as it may worsen inflammation.
Emergency treatment may involve relieving pressure, draining infection and prescribing antibiotics where clinically appropriate, followed by further treatment to address the underlying cause.
If swelling affects breathing, swallowing, vision, or is accompanied by fever or feeling seriously unwell, urgent medical attention should be sought immediately. In these situations, patients should call Triple Zero (000) or attend the nearest hospital emergency department.
Broken Or Cracked Teeth
Broken teeth can occur in countless ways — sporting accidents, falls, biting down on something unexpectedly hard or even from cracks that have gradually weakened a tooth over time.
What many people don’t realise is that a crack isn’t always visible. Some fractures extend below the surface and may only become apparent when pain develops while chewing.
If a tooth breaks, Pure Dentistry recommends rinsing the mouth with cool water, keeping any broken fragments and avoiding chewing on the affected side until the tooth can be assessed.
The clinic’s emergency team has access to on-site digital imaging technology, including 3D CBCT scanning and advanced diagnostic imaging tools, which can assist with diagnosis and treatment planning where clinically appropriate.
Depending on the extent of the damage, treatment may include bonding, fillings, crowns or other restorative options.
Bleeding That Doesn’t Stop
While minor bleeding after dental trauma can sometimes settle on its own, persistent or uncontrolled bleeding requires prompt attention.
For most dental injuries, applying firm pressure with clean gauze for at least 15 minutes can help control bleeding. If bleeding follows a tooth extraction, it is important not to rinse, spit excessively or use straws, as these actions can disturb the blood clot and restart the bleeding.
If bleeding remains heavy, does not subside, or is accompanied by other serious symptoms, urgent dental or medical attention should be sought immediately.
Pure Dentistry advises that severe bleeding or situations where a person feels unwell may warrant direct assessment at a hospital emergency department.
A Team Equipped To Handle A Wide Range Of Emergencies
One of the advantages of seeking emergency care at Pure Dentistry is the depth and diversity of expertise available within the practice.
Dental emergencies can affect anyone, from young children who suffer a sporting injury to adults dealing with severe tooth pain, infections, wisdom tooth complications or dental trauma.
The clinic has assembled a multidisciplinary team with experience across emergency dentistry, oral surgery, wisdom teeth management, root canal treatment, restorative dentistry, sedation dentistry and complex dental rehabilitation.
The team also includes dedicated expertise in children’s dentistry, special-needs dental care, management of anxious patients, emergency trauma management and surgical dental procedures.
This breadth of experience means patients can often receive the appropriate level of care within the one clinic, whether the issue involves a knocked-out tooth, facial swelling, emergency surgery, treatment under sedation or a child experiencing a dental emergency.
For many families, knowing that both adult and paediatric emergency care are available under the same roof provides valuable peace of mind when urgent situations arise.
The clinic also offers a range of sedation options for eligible patients, which may help make emergency treatment more comfortable for those experiencing significant anxiety about dental procedures.
Patient Experiences
Dental emergencies are often stressful, unexpected and painful. These patient reviews highlight emergency experiences involving tooth pain, broken teeth, children’s dental trauma, anxiety support and after-hours care at Pure Dentistry.
What Patients Say About Their Emergency Dental Experience
Dental emergencies are often stressful, unexpected and painful. These patient reviews highlight emergency experiences involving tooth pain, broken teeth, children’s dental trauma, anxiety support, special-needs care and after-hours treatment at Pure Dentistry.
← Swipe or use the arrows to read more patient stories →
Ann-Marie Schmidt
I needed to call on Emergency Dental restorative Services on the Friday before Christmas 2024.
My specialist Dental practice had just closed for the Christmas break that day for 2.5 weeks, my regular Dental practice was not able to see me before Monday, and Family had just arrived from Sydney.
We were all set to go to a much anticipated Christmas event when my centre front upper 6 tooth bridge became loose and then detached, making it virtually impossible for me to go out in public.
Saturday morning I checked Google MAPS, spoke to a local Dentist, who referred me to a local service at Mt Gravatt — Pure Dentistry, who undertake Emergency referrals as well as providing a wide range of Dental services to a regular Client Base.
I spoke to Reception about this complex Dental issue and I was then rung one of their available dentists Dr Sari who said he should be able to help repair the bridge sufficiently to help me get through Christmas and, if he wasn’t able to do so, there would be NO CHARGE.
I was given an appointment for that Saturday afternoon, the Repair was done efficiently and explained as the work proceeded.
A report, plus a set of Step by step photos was then sent to my Dental Specialist, as well as copied to myself, which made follow up much easier and were favourably commented upon by the Prosthedontist.
I am an older Australian and was very impressed with the level of Professional service I received from this practice and found the fees charged to be relatively modest for the services and follow up provided.
Importantly, the staff I encountered were friendly and helpful and went out of their way to help me, at this rather challenging time of year.
So I offer my sincere thanks to Pure Dentist Brisbane Dental Clinics, at Upper Mt Gravatt, and recommend their practice for those looking for Quality Dental Services at an affordable price.
Rebecca O’Rourke
I highly recommend this practice for any and all of your dental needs. I called an emergency dentist late on a Saturday afternoon and I was given an appointment first up Sunday morning.
The dentist and his assistant were beyond fantastic, compassionate and understanding. You guys made this whole process just so easy, thank you.
I’ve finally found a permanent dentist.
Vicky I’Anson
I’m from the UK needed emergency filling and help with my wisdom tooth and just happened to find this gem.
Dr Sari was absolutely fantastic i cannot speak highly enough, along with all the staff. From the minute I phoned for an appointment to when I left at 9.30pm (amazing they do late appointments too) I was treated fantastic.
I put at ease the minute I walked through the door.
I had such a good experience that my mother is now changing to this dentist.
許祥
I cracked my tooth late at night and quickly called the clinic. The team immediately helped me secure an appointment for the next day. It was my first time seeing a dentist in Australia, and I was really nervous at first. But Dr. Sari was incredibly gentle and kind, and the dental assistant who speaks Chinese helped translate everything, which made me feel so much more at ease.
They fixed my tooth perfectly in the end.
I feel really lucky to meet such a caring team while being abroad!
Manuel Segarra
On Saturday I was in so much pain with my wisdom tooth after I was neglected by two other clinics. I called first thing in the morning and Michelle was very nice and kind over the phone and she booked me in with Dr Matthew.
He was excellent and confident to take a job others didn’t want to, he did the extraction flawlessly. What a legend, I couldn’t be more thankful. I could see whole the team wanted to help. Will make this clinic my regular.
Sepideh Safari
Today I had an appointment with Dr. Matthew Peyravi. I had a chipped tooth, and I truly enjoyed my visit. All the staff were very friendly and had a great attitude, and the doctor was amazing.
He made me feel relaxed and completely stress-free. Not only did he fix my broken composite bridge tooth, but he also addressed the issue that caused the break in the first place. I really appreciate his care and professionalism.
Sean Kempel
What an amazing team. They were able to see me after hours and perform an urgent removal. Can’t recommend them enough!
Vanessa Grecl
We had an exceptional experience with Dr Ellie Nadian and the team. My son had a traumatic injury to his front tooth. Throughout the whole process, Dr Ellie was attentive, compassionate and thorough.
We truly appreciate the care that was provided to our family during a stressful time! Highly recommend.
Shannon Pittman
On Thursday we had an emergency appointment scheduled for my 5 year old son who was in a lot of pain.
We had previously had such an awful experience with another Dr and we were very anxious to meet with Dr Soha.
Dr Soha, was incredibly kind, and helped ease any anxiety. We scheduled emergency surgery for my son for the Friday and she was amazing. Her bedside manner was gentle and informative and helped ease any stress as parents.
I am so grateful that we found her and am so happy that she performed the procedure for my son.
I highly recommend parents to use Pure Dentistry – Dr Soha if you have small children for all dental work.
Shannon
Selina Dunne
We saw Dr Sari Simway after my son had a dental emergency. He was absolutely fantastic. He did a great job explaining everything to my son to calm his nerves.
Dr Simway was caring, compassionate and professional manner.
Everything about Pure Dentist was great. They were quick, easy & efficient to deal with. Would highly recommend.
Rebecca Carter
My child has special needs and Dr Soha is by far the most wonderful, caring, patient and calming dentist you could ever ask for. I am blown away each time with how amazing she is with my daughter.
Robert Haskins
Having a molar with a damaged nerve is no fun, especially while on conference. I booked in to PURE DENTISTRY following a painful week and they saw me that very same afternoon.
Dr SARAH LEE and PJ were my team, and did a fantastic job in removing the damaged tooth. Their receptionist even called me the next day as a follow up to see how I was feeling. Five stars all round for this dentistry practice.
Izabella Cullen
I spoke to Michelle at pure dentistry at 8:30 in the morning and got an emergency appointment at 3pm that day. They were so accommodating and understanding of my situation with my wisdom teeth.
When I walked in Mon and Michelle were so warm, welcoming and comforting. Mon took the time to take me through two different quotes to find the best outcome for me. Nikita really calmed my nerves and talked me through three different options to take my wisdoms out.
She was on my side and talked me through the whole entire procedure. I am someone who struggles with anxiety going to the dentist but she kept me calm and was so gentle throughout. I’m glad to have found such a wonderful place and will be going back in the future for all of my treatments now on. Thank you ladies, I’m finally pain free!
What Happens During An Emergency Dental Appointment?
One reason many people delay treatment is uncertainty about what to expect.
At Pure Dentistry, emergency appointments begin with a thorough examination to determine the cause of the problem. Depending on the situation, this may be supported by digital X-rays or 3D imaging performed on site.
The dentist then discusses the findings, outlines available treatment options and explains any associated costs before proceeding.
For nervous patients, the clinic also offers sedation options that may help make emergency treatment more comfortable, including happy gas, with additional sedation services available where appropriate.
The goal is simple: identify the problem, relieve pain where possible and develop a treatment plan that gives patients confidence about their next steps.
Having A Plan Before An Emergency Happens
Dental emergencies rarely happen at convenient times.
They can occur during school sport, family holidays, weekends, public holidays or late at night when many clinics are closed.
That is why knowing where to turn before an emergency happens can save valuable time when treatment is needed.
Based in Upper Mount Gravatt, Pure Dentistry provides emergency dental care for both adults and children. The clinic answers calls between 5am and 11pm, seven days a week, including most public holidays, and offers same-day emergency appointments where available.
While many dental issues can safely wait for a routine appointment, severe pain, facial swelling, uncontrolled bleeding and dental trauma should not be ignored. If you are unsure whether your situation requires urgent attention, contacting an emergency dental provider such as Pure Dentistry for advice is often the safest first step.
Patients can call ahead so the team can assess symptoms, provide immediate guidance and prepare for their arrival. The practice also offers free on-site parking, public transport accessibility, on-site imaging and access to both general and more complex emergency dental treatment pathways.
While not every dental problem is an emergency, severe pain, swelling, trauma, uncontrolled bleeding and knocked-out teeth should never be ignored.
When every minute counts, acting quickly can make all the difference.
Published 7-June-2026
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