The best emergency dentists in Canberra? Photo: File.
A dental emergency doesn’t always happen within business hours and some emergencies can’t wait. If you need the services of an emergency dentist, you’ll want one that is readily available, fast, safe and affordable. Dental issues can be painful and confronting, which is why prompt on-the-spot medical care from a professional is the only solution, yet not all dentists offer emergency care.
In this article, we’ll outline the qualities to consider when choosing an emergency dentist and share where to find the best in Canberra.
What makes a great emergency dentist?
Choosing the right choice of emergency dentist is important, it can be the different between a long period of physical pain or a quick solution that gets you back on your feet.
It can be helpful to keep the following in mind when choosing an emergency dentist.
- Availability – When you’re in pain, you want to call a dentist and be treated as quickly as possible. Some dentists reserve some slots during the day for emergencies. Some are available after hours. It’s best to be prepared for these possibilities in advance, so investigate and inquire with your chosen dentist about their emergency care options if they have any.
- Affordability – Facing a dental emergency shouldn’t mean you have to pay through the teeth, especially if your emergency occurs during normal business hours. Ask what your dentist’s fee structure is for emergency services so you don’t find yourself debating prices while you’re in great pain.
- Friendly and professional – Bedside manner is just as important in an emergency, when you’re stressed and in pain, so you’ll want a dentist who is calm, friendly and professional.
- Technology – Modern dentistry practices invest in state-of-the-art technology to provide the best level of dental care, including in emergencies. Technology in medicine isn’t a cosmetic choice, it directly shows the level of investment that a dentist has in their practice and consequently in their patients.
- Honest advice – In a dental emergency, you’ll want honest advice on how to fix your problem as quickly as possible. Your dentist should be open and honest about what needs to be done, on a temporary and permanent basis. An honest dentist will tell you if you need preventative measures going forward, proactive action or even a specialist.
The best emergency dentists in Canberra
Region Canberra's editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on Region Canberra and Facebook as well as maintaining a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
Dickson Park Dental Surgery
Family dental care with a gentle touch is what patients receive at Dickson Park Dental Surgery. This family dental practice provides high-quality after hours and emergency dental care. With five dentists on hand, Dickson Park Dental Surgery also provides general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, dental implants and more. Effective sleep apnoea treatment is also available. Open Monday to Saturday.
Jess Tsimeris wrote on Google, “Reasonable prices, very experienced and friendly.”
Village Dental
Village Dental, in Kambah Village Shopping Centre, provides superior dental services, including prevention and oral health. Dentists foster positive patient relationships based on trust and personalised service. Village Dental offers emergency appointments every day within opening hours (Monday to Saturday).
On Facebook, Jenny Wellington wrote, “I highly recommend Village Dental. I had neglected my teeth for years and went to get them cleaned. They transformed my teeth … I feel like a new person!”
Molonglo Dental Surgery
Molonglo Dental Surgery strives to set themselves apart from other dental practices.
Part of this effort includes a 24-hour emergency dental service so that when you really need a dentist, the team at Molonglo Dental are there ready to help with precise, clinically sound yet personalised dental care in a comforting environment.
“Amazing after-hours service … recommend anyone needing a dentist to give them a call," Justin said on Google.
If you’re looking for more information on dentists in Canberra, you might like our articles on the best dentists, best bulk billing dentists, best cosmetic dentists, best teeth whitening services, best orthodontists and best Invisalign orthodontists Canberra has to offer.
Your experience with emergency dentists in Canberra
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had experience with any of the emergency dentists listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a true dental emergency?
A true dental emergency is when you’re in unbearable pain or you’re bleeding in the mouth and it won’t stop. If you have a broken or cracked tooth but aren’t in considerable pain, you can likely wait to call your dentist for an appointment during regular hours. The same applies with other dental issues, such as a lost filling or crown not causing severe pain.
What do I do in a dental emergency?
It’s best to contact your regular dentist or another dentist if they’re available. If not, you might have to go to the emergency department of your local hospital.
Should I just bear with the pain until I can see my regular dentist?
Some pain is bearable but a dental emergency, like any medical emergency, can have serious consequences if not properly treated and pain is obviously a sign of a serious issue. Matters will only get worse as time goes on.
How much does it cost to have an emergency dental treatment?
The cost varies depending on your dental emergency as well as the practice itself. Some problems are quick fixes while others will require more extensive work either on the spot or down the road, this effects how much you'll have to pay. Some dentists will charge extra to handle emergencies during the day while others won't. It is always important to check price structure with your dentist before an emergency may arise.
