If you think you need urgent care, contact your usual dentist if you have one, as some surgeries offer emergency dental appointments and will provide care if clinically necessary.
You can also contact NHS 111, who will put you in touch with an urgent dental service. Do not contact a GP as they cannot offer urgent or emergency dental care.
If you are in pain while waiting to see a dentist, take painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen.
NHS 111 can also offer other self-care advice.
When to go to hospital
Only go to A&E if you have:
- Heavy bleeding
- Injuries to your face, mouth, or teeth
- Severe swelling, or increasing swelling of your mouth, lips, throat, neck, or eye
If you are not sure whether you should go to A&E, contact NHS 111, who will be able to advise you.
How much will I be charged?
The emergency dentist will only treat your emergency dental problem and reduce any pain.
Emergency or urgent dental treatment costs £26.80, unless you’re entitled to free NHS dental treatment.
If you are asked to return for further treatment, this will be considered a separate course of non-urgent treatment.
If you are not entitled to free NHS dental treatment, you will need to pay the relevant charge for the new course of treatment.
Ask the dentist about the cost of the treatment and if you can have a treatment plan.