Menu

When to call and what to expect

A toothache or facial swelling can be worrying. While some dental pain can settle on its own, other symptoms may indicate infection and should be assessed promptly. Knowing when to contact us and what will happen next can help you feel more in control.

Back to Emergency & Broken Teeth
down white black pearl plain arrow down black pearl white plain arrow

Contact

Get in touch

FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What causes a toothache and swelling?

Common causes include:

  • Dental decay.
  • Infection of the tooth or surrounding tissues.
  • Cracked or fractured teeth.
  • Gum infection.
  • Problems with previous dental work.

An accurate diagnosis is key to effective treatment.

What will happen at your appointment?

Your appointment will focus on:

  • Understanding your symptoms.
  • Clinical examination.
  • X-rays as needed.
  • Identifying the cause of the pain or swelling.

The aim is to relieve discomfort and address the underlying problem.

How is toothache or swelling treated?

Treatment depends on the diagnosis and may include:

  • Pain relief and local treatment.
  • Treatment of infection.
  • Drainage of swelling where required.
  • Root canal treatment.
  • Tooth extraction in some cases.

Antibiotics are only prescribed when clinically appropriate.

Will treatment start straight away?

In most cases, yes. The priority is to relieve pain or control infection. Definitive treatment may be carried out at the same visit or planned once acute symptoms settle.

When should you contact us?

You should contact the clinic if you experience:

  • Persistent or worsening toothache.
  • Swelling of the gum, face, or jaw.
  • Pain when biting or chewing.
  • Sensitivity that does not settle.
  • Bad taste or discharge near a tooth.

These symptoms may indicate infection or inflammation that requires assessment.

Emergency symptoms

When should you seek urgent care?

Urgent assessment is important if you have:

  • Rapidly increasing facial swelling.
  • Difficulty opening your mouth.
  • Fever or feeling unwell.
  • Swelling spreading towards the eye or neck.

In these situations, prompt treatment is essential.

Harcourt Dental Clinic
logo right white plain symbol

Planning and responsibility of care

Your treating dentist will assess your symptoms and explain the findings clearly. Where infection, swelling, or treatment is complex, care is planned carefully to ensure your comfort and safety. If further treatment is required, this will be explained before any decisions are made.

Patient takeaway

Toothache and swelling should not be ignored. Early assessment often prevents more serious problems and leads to quicker relief.

TREATMENT TESTIMONIALS

Our Smile Transformations

We’re proud to be a trusted part of our patients’ oral health journeys. Explore their testimonials to see how we’re creating positive dental experiences – one smile at a time.

Explore
star yellow plain icon

I required some extensive dental work, which I had been catastrophising in my head for some time now. Having finally plucked up the courage, I consider myself extremely fortunate to have been cared for so professionally & competently by Lorna…

Colin K

google blue red yellow green plain icon
star yellow plain icon

I had a great experience with Lorna. She was very competent, gentle and took the time to explain everything clearly. I’d highly recommend Lorna to anyone who feels anxious about visiting the dentist!

Amy T

google blue red yellow green plain icon
star yellow plain icon

I’ve been a patient at Harcourt Dental Clinic for about 5 years now, and I couldn’t be happier with the service I’ve received. From the friendly and welcoming staff to the professional and skilled dentists, every visit has been a…

Adrian V

google blue red yellow green plain icon
star yellow plain icon

Martina is an excellent hygienist, professional, kind, and thorough. She made me feel completely at ease and did a fantastic job with my cleaning. I highly recommend her!

Ana R

google blue red yellow green plain icon
star yellow plain icon

I would highly recommend this dental practice. They are very professional in every sense. Special shout-out for Cianna & Kevin, two highly skilled dentists.

Brian R

google blue red yellow green plain icon
star yellow plain icon

I strongly recommend this dental practice. The reception staff are always friendly and polite. Dr Lorna Mahon and her assistant have been excellent in treating a quite difficult dental issue with great care and professionalism.

Matthew V

google blue red yellow green plain icon
logo left customs green plain symbol
abstract line left gray plain shape

Contact us today!

If you have a broken tooth or a cracked tooth, contact us for an assessment and a clear plan.

logo up customs green plain symbol

Social Media

Join the Conversation

Follow us on social media for the latest updates, behind-the-scenes moments, and more.

Explore
Google Rating
4.8
Google Rating
Google-review