‍What counts as a dental emergency?

Before we dive into specific emergencies, you might be wondering: "How do I know if my dental problem is actually an emergency?"

A dental emergency is typically any situation involving severe pain, bleeding, infection, or trauma to the mouth that requires urgent professional attention. If you're in extreme discomfort, have visible swelling, or have experienced dental trauma, it's best not to wait.

At Siha Dental in Shepherd's Bush, we offer emergency dental appointments seven days a week, because we understand that dental problems don't take weekends off – and neither do we.

1. Knocked-out tooth: Every minute counts

Have you lost a tooth in an accident? This is perhaps one of the most time-sensitive dental emergencies you can experience.

When a tooth is completely knocked out (dental professionals call this an "avulsed tooth"), the clock starts ticking immediately. Did you know that a knocked-out tooth has the best chance of being saved if it's reimplanted within 30-60 minutes?

What to do if your tooth gets knocked out:

• Handle the tooth by the crown (the part you normally see in your mouth), not the root
• Gently rinse it with milk or saliva if it's dirty – never use soap or chemicals
• Try to place it back in the socket if possible, facing the right way
• If you can't reinsert it, keep it moist in milk, saliva, or a tooth preservation product
• Call us immediately on 020 4602 3510 and head down to our practice in Shepherd's Bush as quickly as possible

At Siha Dental, our experienced team is trained to handle dental trauma cases. We're just a call away, whether you're in Shepherd's Bush, Hammersmith, White City, or anywhere in West London. Remember, quick action can mean the difference between saving and losing your tooth permanently.

"Great staff! Took care of a dental emergency with amazing care! Would highly recommend!" - Rhonda Long

2. Severe toothache: When pain becomes unbearable

Is tooth pain keeping you awake at night? A severe toothache that doesn't respond to over-the-counter pain medication isn't just inconvenient – it's your body's way of signalling something is seriously wrong.

Intense tooth pain can be caused by:

• A dental abscess (infection)
• Advanced decay reaching the nerve
• A cracked tooth
• Impacted wisdom teeth

In these cases, waiting until Monday could mean:

• Spreading infection
• Increased pain
• Potential bone or tissue damage
• More complex (and costly) treatment later

What to do until you reach our practice:

• Rinse with warm salt water to reduce inflammation
• Take appropriate pain relief (avoiding aspirin if there's any bleeding)
• Apply a cold compress to your cheek if there's swelling
• Call our private dental practice in Shepherd's Bush on 020 4602 3510 for a same-day emergency appointment

At Siha Dental, we've designed our practice to be a calming, spa-like environment – because we know dental emergencies are stressful enough. Our team is specially trained to work with nervous patients, making us the ideal choice if dental anxiety has prevented you from seeking urgent care in the past.

3. Dental abscess: When infection can't be ignored

Have you noticed swelling, a bad taste in your mouth, or a pimple-like bump on your gum? These could be signs of a dental abscess – a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection.

A dental abscess is never a wait-and-see situation. In some cases, dental infections can spread to other parts of your body, including your jawbone, neck, and even your brain. In rare cases, they can lead to sepsis, a life-threatening condition.

Warning signs of a dental abscess include:

• Throbbing pain that may radiate to your jaw, ear, or neck
• Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
• Sensitivity to pressure when biting or chewing
• Fever
• Swelling in your face or cheek
• A foul taste in your mouth
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing (in severe cases)

If you experience any of these symptoms, especially combined with fever or swelling, don't wait until Monday. Call us immediately on 020 4602 3510 for emergency care.

Our specialist team at Siha Dental understands the urgency of dental infections and will work to relieve your pain and address the underlying cause promptly.

4. Broken tooth or restoration: More than just an aesthetic concern

Did you break a tooth or lose a filling or crown? While it might seem like merely a cosmetic issue that can wait, broken teeth and lost restorations can lead to further complications if not addressed quickly.

A broken tooth has exposed dentin and possibly pulp (the inner part containing nerves and blood vessels), making it vulnerable to infection. Similarly, a lost filling or crown leaves the previously protected tooth structure exposed to bacteria and potential decay.

What to do if you've broken a tooth or lost a restoration:

• Rinse your mouth gently with warm water
• If there's bleeding, apply pressure with a piece of gauze or a tea bag
• Cover any sharp edges with dental wax or sugar-free chewing gum to protect your tongue and cheeks
• For a lost crown, if possible, slip it back over the tooth after applying a dab of toothpaste, dental adhesive, or denture adhesive
• Call Siha Dental on 020 4602 3510 for a prompt appointment with our emergency dentist in W12

At Siha Dental, we provide holistic care with no hidden costs. When you come in for your emergency appointment, our team will not only address your immediate concern but will also be happy to develop a personalised plan for your long-term dental health to help avoid issues like the one you are facing from happening again.

5. Uncontrolled bleeding: Never normal after dental work

Are you experiencing persistent bleeding following a dental procedure? While some bleeding is normal after certain dental treatments, uncontrolled bleeding is always an emergency.

Excessive bleeding can occur after tooth extractions, deep cleanings, or as a result of trauma. It may also be more likely if you're taking blood-thinning medications or have certain medical conditions.

What to do if you're experiencing uncontrolled oral bleeding:

• Apply firm pressure to the area with a clean gauze pad or tea bag for 15-20 minutes
• Sit upright and avoid physical activity
• Avoid rinsing, spitting, or using a straw, as these actions can dislodge blood clots
• If bleeding continues after 20-30 minutes of pressure, call us immediately on 020 4602 3510

Our team at Siha Dental is equipped to handle bleeding emergencies efficiently. With evening and weekend appointments available, we're here to provide care when other practices in Shepherd's Bush and West London might be closed.

Why choose Siha Dental for your emergency care?

If you live in Shepherd's Bush or surrounding areas in West London like Hammersmith, White City, Acton, Chiswick, or Ealing, Siha Dental offers several advantages when dental emergencies strike :

• Specialist care: Our team is led by Dr. Hannan, who has won multiple awards for excellence in dentistry
• Extended availability: We're open seven days a week with evening appointments and out-of-hours care
• Same-day appointments: We aim to see emergency cases within 24 hours, often on the same day
• Calming environment: Our practice is designed to reduce anxiety during stressful emergencies
• Fully accessible: Our practice is wheelchair accessible throughout
• Transparent pricing: Our emergency appointment fee is £69, which includes assessment, necessary X-rays, and antibiotic prescriptions if required
• Comprehensive care: We don't just treat symptoms – we develop personalised treatment plans for lasting oral health

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How to reach us in an emergency

If you're experiencing any of these five dental emergencies – or any other urgent dental issue – don't wait until Monday morning. Contact Siha Dental immediately:

Call: 020 4602 3510
WhatsApp: Send details or photos of your emergency

Remember, at Siha Dental (where "Siha" means "health" in Arabic), we're committed to "nurturing health and embracing wellness." This means providing compassionate emergency care when you need it most, even on weekends.

Frequently asked questions about dental emergencies

How quickly can I get an emergency appointment at Siha Dental?

At Siha Dental, we understand the urgency of dental emergencies. We're available seven days a week and offer same-day appointments for urgent cases to restore your oral health swiftly.

What's included in an emergency dental appointment?

Your emergency appointment at Siha Dental includes a comprehensive assessment of your dental concern, any necessary small X-rays, antibiotic prescriptions if required, and a discussion of bespoke treatment options.

How much does an emergency dental appointment cost?

The cost of an emergency appointment at Siha Dental is £69. This includes your assessment, necessary small X-rays, and antibiotic prescription if required. Any additional treatments needed will incur separate charges.

Can I prevent dental emergencies?

Many dental emergencies can be prevented through regular check-ups, good oral hygiene, wearing mouthguards during sports, and avoiding chewing hard objects like ice or popcorn kernels.

Don't let dental pain ruin your weekend – contact Siha Dental for compassionate emergency care in Shepherd's Bush and throughout West London. Your health can't wait until Monday, and neither will we.