Emergency Dental Treatment

What should I do in the event of a dental emergency?

If you are looking for an emergency dentist in Leek, Russell Street Dental Practice can help. Whether you have dental pain, swelling, a broken tooth or have lost a filling please contact us on 01538 388822 for an emergency appointment.

You do not have to be registered with Russell Street Dental Practice to see our emergency dentist. However, registered patients who are in pain will take priority and will usually be seen the same day, where possible.

If you need an appointment to see an emergency dentist please contact our reception staff as early in the day as possible to ensure that you can be seen as quickly as possible.

Out of Hours Dental Care

For out of hours emergency care, please telephone the practice. You will be given the appropriate number to call.

Emergency treatment will be provided by Mr Broome, a local colleague or the NHS out of hours service.
(The NHS service is provided by North Staffs PCT via NHS Direct – 0845 46 47 nhsdirect.nhs.uk)

I have a toothache

If you have a constant pain, this indicates there is something wrong that requires attention. Painkillers are usually necessary and if you are able to take them, Ibuprofen is usually best. If you are not able to take Ibuprofen, Paracetamol is recommended but be careful not to exceed the maximum dose.

Please follow the written instructions given with any pain and relief you take. If in doubt please consult your Doctor, Pharmacist or Dentist.

I have a swelling

This is usually caused by an infection and treatment will be required. You must contact the practice as soon as possible.

I have fractured a tooth

Please do not panic as these can usually be restored. If the tooth is painful, avoid hot and cold foods. If there is pain try to avoid eating or biting on that side. Painkillers can often help. An early appointment is usually necessary to avoid further damage to the tooth and possibly the nerve inside. We can easily provide a temporary restoration and ensure it is pain free.

I have lost a crown

Please keep the crown safe, so it can be re-cemented for you. If the underlying tooth is painful avoid eating near it and drink tepid drinks only. It is essential that the crown is re-cemented as failure to do so can lead to further damage.

I have knocked a tooth out

The tooth needs to be re-implanted as soon as possible. If you can, place the tooth back into the socket. If this is not possible, place it in some cold milk until you can be seen either by us or a local hospital emergency dental department. Do not place in water. Try not to handle the tooth root too much to protect the fibres around the root surface.

I have broken my denture

Broken dentures can usually be repaired relatively easily. Please resist the temptation to glue them together yourself as this often makes a repair very difficult. Please call the practice to organise the repair.