Portside Dental
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Does Your Toothache Need Emergency Care or Can It Wait? Newport, VIC Guide

October 31, 2025
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Posted By: Dr Meredith Metin

You have a throbbing toothache and wonder if you should try to tough it out or call your dentist. Knowing when to treat a toothache as a dental emergency in Newport often makes the difference between a simple fix and a more serious dental issue.

Signs Your Toothache Is a Dental Emergency

Some toothaches can wait a day or two. Others need urgent attention. It’s always best to contact an emergency dentist in Newport, VIC if you experience:

  • Severe, persistent pain
  • Swelling in your face or jaw
  • Fever or a bad taste in your mouth
  • Lost filling or crown exposing the sensitive part of the tooth
  • A cracked or knocked-out tooth

Still unsure? The safest approach is to contact your dental clinic so you can describe your symptoms and get guidance on the next steps.

Common Causes of Emergency Toothaches

Urgent toothaches are usually caused by:

  • Infections or abscesses
  • Deep decay reaching the nerve
  • Broken or loose fillings
  • Gum infections or injury
  • Cracked teeth or exposed roots

Prompt care gives you the best chance of resolving the issue as conservatively as possible and saving your tooth in the process.

Self-Care Until You See the Dentist

If you're dealing with a dental emergency in Newport and waiting for an appointment, try these at-home tips:

  • Rinse your mouth with warm salt water
  • Take over-the-counter pain relievers
  • Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling
  • Avoid chewing on the affected side

The information provided here is for general guidance only and is not a substitute for professional dental care. For personalised advice, contact your dentist or seek emergency dental services promptly.

What to Expect at Your Emergency Appointment

When you arrive for your appointment, your emergency dentist in Newport, VIC, will ask you what you’re experiencing and how long it’s been an issue. Next, they’ll examine the tooth and possibly take X-rays if needed.

Once they pinpoint the source of pain, they will explain their recommendations, which may include a filling, crown, root canal, or tooth extraction.

Still wondering if your toothache can wait, or if it's urgent? When in doubt, it’s always best to seek professional help. The friendly team at Portside Dental is ready to take your call and help you arrange an emergency appointment as soon as possible.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks, and we recommend seeking a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner before proceeding.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.