Start with what matters to you.
I cannot get an appointment.
Call your usual practice for its urgent arrangements. If unavailable, contact your local urgent dental service or NHS 111 where available.
I have swelling as well as pain.
Explain its location, whether it is worsening and whether you feel unwell when you seek help.
I am worried about the cost.
Ask the assessment fee, whether X-rays are included and how any immediate treatment is charged.
Understanding Emergency Dentistry.
Emergency Dentistry assesses urgent dental pain, swelling, bleeding or damage. The first appointment may relieve symptoms or stabilise the problem; definitive treatment can require another visit. Contact a practice directly to confirm urgent availability.
Understand an urgent appointment.
Find the Cause
Explain the pain, swelling, bleeding or injury. The team decides how quickly you need care.
Relief or Stabilisation
The first visit may deal with the urgent problem without completing every stage of treatment.
A Follow-Up Plan
Ask what still needs doing, when to return and who to contact if symptoms worsen.
What Happens During Treatment.
Your dentist confirms the stages and timing for your own treatment plan.
Contact an Urgent Dental Service
Describe your pain, swelling, injury or bleeding so the team can advise on urgency. Do not wait for a DentalSelect enquiry reply if you need urgent care.
Examine the Cause
The dentist checks the problem and may take X-rays. They explain what can be done at this visit.
Relieve or Stabilise the Problem
Depending on the cause, immediate care may include a temporary repair, drainage or starting treatment. Antibiotics are not the answer to every toothache.
Complete the Treatment
You may need another appointment for a lasting repair. Ask what symptoms need urgent help and who to contact if things worsen.
The exact appointments and recovery time depend on your assessment and the treatment agreed with your dentist.
Your Options with This Treatment.
Things to Consider.
Call 999 if mouth or neck swelling makes breathing, swallowing or speaking difficult. Swelling around the eye or neck also needs emergency assessment. Do not wait for an online response.
Your Emergency Dentistry questions.
Will the first appointment finish the treatment?
Not always. Ask what has been stabilised and what still needs doing.
Should I wait for a DentalSelect enquiry reply?
No, not for urgent symptoms. Contact the practice or urgent service directly.
What if my tooth is knocked out?
A knocked-out adult tooth is time-sensitive: seek urgent dental advice immediately. Tell the service whether it is an adult or baby tooth.