Dental Pain or a Broken Tooth? Here’s What to Do
A calm, friendly guide for patients here in Newcastle
Dental problems rarely come with warning, and sudden pain or damage can be stressful. Whether it’s a toothache or a broken tooth, it’s natural to feel anxious.
Take a moment to breathe. You’re not alone, and in almost every situation, there are solutions and ways to relieve your pain.
What to Do If You’ve Broken a Tooth
Even a small break can feel alarming. Acting quickly can reduce pain and prevent further damage.
Immediate steps:
Rinse your mouth gently with warm water
Keep any broken pieces if possible
Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling
Avoid chewing on that side
Don’t attempt DIY fixes
Even minor cracks can allow bacteria in and lead to infection, but the good news is that dentists can often repair broken or chipped teeth effectively, restoring both function and appearance.
Toothache: When Home Remedies Aren’t Enough
Toothache can be dull or intense. Home remedies like saltwater rinses or over-the-counter pain relief can temporarily ease discomfort, but they don’t address the underlying problem.
It’s usually time to seek help if you notice:
Pain lasting more than a day or two
Worsening or throbbing pain
Swelling in your face or gums
Lingering pain from hot or cold
Pain when biting or chewing
No matter how severe the pain feels, there are treatments available that can help you feel better and prevent more serious problems from developing.
How to Tell If It’s a Dental Emergency
Not every dental problem is urgent, but it’s always better to check if you’re unsure.
Seek care promptly if you have:
A broken, cracked, or knocked-out tooth
Severe or ongoing tooth pain
Swelling in the mouth, face, or jaw
Bleeding that won’t stop
Injury to the mouth or teeth
Even in situations that seem serious, dentists have ways to manage pain and restore teeth safely. There’s almost always a solution.
What About Calling 111
If you’re in dental pain, NHS 111 is a useful first point of contact. They can assess your symptoms and, in some cases, help arrange care.
Many patients find this reassuring and can be seen quickly. At times, however, patients are advised to contact local practices directly to check availability. This can feel a bit overwhelming - especially when you’re already in pain or anxious. This is when patients normally have to consider private options, especially when pain is unbearable.
How Our Practice Can Support You
Our Newcastle practice is private, safe, welcoming, and unhurried. We focus on helping patients feel calm and supported, particularly if you’re nervous about dental treatment.
Patients often contact us because:
They’re in pain and need help sooner
They want reassurance and gentle care
They’ve been advised to call around for availability
Our team is highly experienced in supporting anxious patients. We go at your pace, explain everything clearly, and focus on getting you comfortable and out of pain.
No matter the problem, there is almost always a way to restore comfort and function, and we will guide you every step of the way.
Booking an Emergency Appointment
If you’re in pain, have a broken tooth, or simply need advice, please contact us. Where we have space, we offer emergency appointments to provide prompt relief in a calm, supportive environment.
You don’t need to worry - we will help you find a solution, relieve your pain, and make sure you feel safe and cared for.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’m anxious about the dentist - will I be okay?
Absolutely. Supporting anxious patients is a key part of what we do. Our practice is safe and welcoming, we offer longer appointments so you won’t feel in any way rushed, and we will go at your pace throughout .
Should I call 111 first?
Yes - NHS 111 is a great starting point and may arrange care. If they advise contacting practices directly, you’re welcome to get in touch with us.
Do you offer emergency appointments?
Yes, where space allows. Availability varies, so it’s best to get in touch.
Are you an NHS practice?
We are a private practice, and any treatment provided is on a private basis.
Should I wait to see if the pain settles?
If pain persists, worsens, or affects sleep or eating, it’s best to seek advice sooner rather than later. There are almost always solutions available, so you don’t need to suffer unnecessarily.
Want to book with us?
Dental problems can be stressful, but you don’t need to face them alone. If you’re in pain or have a broken tooth, call us directly on (0191) 488 6668 - ideally early in the day to help secure an emergency appointment.
Our skilled dentists will not only relieve your pain but also provide careful, compassionate treatment, guiding you every step of the way. We’re experienced in supporting nervous patients, so you can feel confident that your comfort and care are our top priorities.