Emergency Dental Care Guide

Knocked Out Tooth

What to do:

• Handle the tooth by the crown, not the root
• Rinse gently with milk or saline (don't scrub)
• Try to place it back in the socket if possible
• If not, keep it in milk or your saliva
• See a dentist within 30 minutes for best chance of saving the tooth

Severe Toothache

What to do:

• Take over-the-counter pain relief (follow dosage instructions)
• Rinse with warm salt water
• Use a cold compress on the outside of your cheek
• Avoid hot, cold, or sugary foods
• Contact your dentist for an emergency appointment

Broken or Chipped Tooth

What to do:

• Rinse your mouth with warm water
• Save any broken pieces in milk or saliva
• Apply gauze if there's bleeding
• Use a cold compress to reduce swelling
• See a dentist as soon as possible

Dental Abscess

Symptoms: Severe pain, swelling, fever, bad taste

What to do:

• This is serious - see a dentist immediately
• Rinse with warm salt water
• Take pain relief as directed
• Do not attempt to drain the abscess yourself
• Antibiotics may be needed

Lost Filling or Crown

What to do:

• Keep the crown if you can find it
• Clean it and try refitting it temporarily with dental cement or toothpaste
• Avoid chewing on that side
• See your dentist within a few days
• Clove oil can help with pain

During Normal Hours

Call your regular dentist. Most practices reserve time for emergency appointments.

Out of Hours

Options include:

• Call your dentist - they may have an emergency number
• Call NHS 111 for urgent advice and local emergency dentists
• Search our directory for emergency dentists in your area
• Some practices offer 24/7 emergency services

Cost of Emergency Treatment

NHS emergency dental treatment is charged at Band 1 (£26.80) for initial treatment. Private emergency appointments vary by practice - always ask about costs upfront.