Emergency Dental Treatment 

A GP is not appropriately trained to deal with dental problems. This includes toothaches, abscesses and problems experienced after dental treatment. We cannot provide antibiotics as it is necessary to have a full assessment before prescribing such things.

We would therefore suggest patients register with and attend regularly a dentist who can provide appropriate routine and emergency advice. Dentists offer a 24 hour emergency service. Out of normal surgery hours, this service is only for urgent dental treatment that cannot wait until the next working day to be treated.

For emergency dental treatment outside normal working hours, registered patients should contact their dental surgery. Most surgeries have an answering machine message referring you to out-of-hours information.                        

If you do not have a dentist or cannot get an emergency appointment: · call 111 or visit 111 online – they can advise you what to do · find a dentist near you – ask if you can have an emergency appointment

You may have to pay for your appointment. Find out more about NHS Dental Services & Charges - Dental services - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

When to see a Dentist ?

Non-urgent advice: See a dentist if you have toothache:

• that lasts more than 2 days 
• that does not go away when you take painkillers
• with a high temperature, pain when you bite, red gums, or a bad taste in your mouth
• and your cheek or jaw is swollen

Do not go to your GP as they will not be able to give you dental treatment.

When to take immediate action 

Immediate action required:Go to A&E if you have toothache and:

• the area around your eye or your neck is swollen                                                                                                                
• swelling in your mouth or neck is making it difficult for you to breathe, swallow or speak

How to ease toothache while waiting for an appointment

• take painkillers, like ibuprofen or paracetamol (children under 16 should not take aspirin) – a pharmacist can advise you
• use a pain-relieving gel for your mouth – this can be bought from pharmacies or supermarkets
• try rinsing your mouth with salt water (children should not try this)
• eat soft foods, like yoghurt or scrambled eggs, and try to avoid chewing with the sore tooth
• use a soft toothbrush and avoid flossing around the sore tooth

How to rinse with salt water

1. Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water – warm water helps salt dissolve.
2. Rinse your mouth with the solution, then spit it out – do not swallow it.
3. Repeat as often as you like

Find a Dentist - Near Me 

Find a dentist - NHS (www.nhs.uk)