If you or a family member has a very painful toothache or an injury to your teeth or gums, get help as soon as possible.

For serious problems that occur after hours or on weekends, you may need to contact an after-hours dentist, see below.

Some hospitals can deal with dental emergencies, but this should be your last option. You will likely have to follow up with a dentist later.

The Ministry of Health also has some tips on how to get emergency dental care.

Subsidised urgent care from a private dentist

Some private dentists have a contract with Canterbury DHB to provide subsidised urgent care for people who have a Community Services Card. To use this service you must live in Canterbury and have a current Community Services Card. The emergency dental care is for a one-off treatment of a problem. If you need further dental care, you'll have to pay the dentist’s usual fees for this.

Participating dental practices provide a 30-minute visit, where a dentist will assess the dental problem and provide any necessary dental treatment.

Note: If the dentist decides that your dental condition doesn't meet the definition of a dental emergency, they'll charge their usual fees. You will need to pay a co-payment of up to $40 a visit under this scheme.

Participating dental practices in Canterbury

WINZ emergency grant

WINZ beneficiaries can apply for an emergency grant of up to $300 to pay for urgent dental care with any dentist. Talk to the dentist about applying for the grant before you start treatment.

ACC

ACC will contribute towards the cost of treatment for teeth damaged in accidents (PDF). You can phone ACC on 0800 101 996 for more information.

After Hours & Emergency Dentists in Christchurch

The following private dentists in Christchurch have identified that they are open late night and some weekends and public holidays for emergency dental appointments. Note: These services are not associated with Canterbury DHB. 

Garden City Dental, Bealey Avenue, Christchurch
Phone: 03 379 6222
www.gardencitydental.co.nz

Loxo Dental, Papanui, Christchurch
Phone: 03 354 9549
www.loxodental.co.nz

Pathway Dental, 91 Riccarton Road, Christchurch
Phone: 03 366 8866
www.pathwaydentists.co.nz

Team Dental Riccarton, Christchurch
Phone: 03 341 1122
www.team-dental.co.nz