Management of acute dental problems: an aide-mémoire for referrals to oral and maxillofacial surgery

The acute management of a facial swelling is a core competency for the dental practitioner. Onward referral to secondary care for acutely unwell patients requires timely decisions, with the referrer's initial assessment often critical in later management. Oral and maxillofacial triage is essential to ensure appropriate care is provided in the appropriate environment. Acute swelling and haemorrhage referrals to secondary care are not a common, everyday occurrence in general dental practice; however, the ability to provide a sufficient and safe handover will improve patient outcomes and ensure timely transfer to appropriate care providers. This article aims to provide the dental practitioner with insight into the oral and maxillofacial assessment of acute facial swellings and dental haemorrhage. The reader should be able to make an appropriate clinical assessment and communicate an effective referral to oral and maxillofacial care.