Whether it’s a sudden toothache, a knocked-out tooth, or a broken crown, the pain and stress can be overwhelming. That’s where an emergency dentist plays a crucial role. These professionals provide immediate care to alleviate pain, prevent complications, and preserve your oral health.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about emergency dental care — what qualifies as a dental emergency, the types of treatments available, how to manage pain before your appointment, and how to access emergency dental services in the UK.

What Is an Emergency Dentist?

An emergency dentist is a dental professional who provides urgent care for dental issues that require immediate attention. These are problems that cannot wait for a routine dental appointment due to pain, bleeding, infection, or risk of permanent damage.

Emergency dentists are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of acute dental conditions and can offer pain relief, perform temporary or permanent repairs, and help prevent complications.

What Counts as a Dental Emergency?

Understanding what constitutes a dental emergency is essential so you know when to seek urgent care. Some dental issues can wait a day or two, while others require immediate intervention.

Common Dental Emergencies Include:

1. Severe Toothache or Dental Pain

   • Constant, throbbing pain could indicate infection or abscess

   • Over-the-counter painkillers may not offer relief

2. Knocked-Out Tooth (Avulsed Tooth)

   • Time-sensitive emergency — ideally treated within one hour

   • Immediate action can save the tooth

3. Cracked, Broken, or Chipped Teeth

   • Especially if accompanied by pain or exposed nerve

   • Sharp edges may injure the tongue or cheeks

4. Dental Abscess

   • A pocket of pus caused by bacterial infection

   • Symptoms include swelling, pain, fever, bad breath, and pus discharge

5. Lost Fillings or Crowns

   • Can expose sensitive tooth structures

   • Risk of further damage or infection if left untreated

6. Bleeding or Trauma to the Gums or Mouth

   • May result from sports injuries, accidents, or biting injuries

7. Objects Lodged Between Teeth

   • Can cause pain and gum irritation if not removed properly

8. Post-Surgical Complications

   • Persistent bleeding, swelling, or pain after dental procedures

Signs You Need an Emergency Dentist

If you’re unsure whether your situation is urgent, watch for the following signs:

• Intense, uncontrollable tooth pain

• Facial swelling or swelling in the jaw

• Bleeding that doesn’t stop after applying pressure

• Loose adult teeth

• Sudden trauma or injury to the mouth

• Pus or foul taste in the mouth (signs of infection)

• Difficulty swallowing or breathing (requires immediate medical attention)

When in doubt, it’s safer to contact a dental professional or call NHS 111 for guidance.

What to Do During a Dental Emergency

Knowing how to respond to a dental emergency before reaching the dentist can make a big difference.

Toothache

• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water

• Take ibuprofen or paracetamol for pain relief

• Avoid applying aspirin directly to gums or teeth

Knocked-Out Tooth

• Hold the tooth by the crown (not the root)

• Rinse gently with water (no scrubbing)

• Try to reinsert into the socket if possible

• If not, place in milk or saline and seek help immediately

Cracked or Broken Tooth

• Rinse mouth with warm water

• Apply cold compress to reduce swelling

• Keep any broken pieces and bring them to the dentist

Lost Filling or Crown

• Avoid chewing on that side

• Use dental cement (available at pharmacies) as a temporary fix

Dental Abscess

• Rinse with salt water

• Apply cold compress

• Avoid squeezing or draining the abscess yourself

Emergency Dental Treatments

An emergency dentist may offer a range of treatments depending on your situation:

1. Tooth Extractions

When a tooth is too damaged or infected to save, an emergency extraction may be necessary to relieve pain and prevent the spread of infection.

2. Root Canal Treatment

Used to treat infections in the tooth pulp, root canals remove the infected tissue, clean the canal, and seal the tooth.

3. Dental Fillings

If a cavity or damaged tooth is causing pain, a filling may be placed to restore structure and function.

4. Crown or Bridge Repair

Loose or broken crowns and bridges can often be temporarily or permanently re-cemented.

5. Emergency Denture Repair

A broken denture can cause difficulty eating and speaking. Some clinics offer same-day denture repairs.

6. Incision and Drainage

For abscesses, the dentist may drain the pus to reduce pain and swelling, along with prescribing antibiotics.

Emergency Dental Services in the UK

NHS Emergency Dental Care

If you’re registered with an NHS dentist, call their office. If it’s out of hours, dial NHS 111 for advice on where to go for emergency treatment. NHS emergency care typically includes pain relief, extractions, or temporary treatments.

NHS Urgent Care Fee: £25.80 (as of 2025, may vary)

Private Emergency Dentists

Private clinics often offer faster access, longer hours, and same-day appointments. Some even offer 24/7 emergency services.

Private Emergency Visit Cost: £75 – £250 (not including treatment)

You can often find emergency dentists online with searches like “emergency dentist near me” or “24-hour dental clinic in [your location]”.

Cost of Emergency Dental Treatment

Costs vary depending on whether you are treated on the NHS or privately, and on the type of treatment provided.

Note: NHS band pricing includes all treatment within the same band. Private clinics may charge separately.

How to Prevent Dental Emergencies

While not all emergencies are avoidable, many can be prevented with good oral care and proactive habits.

Tips to Avoid Dental Emergencies:

• Maintain regular dental check-ups (every 6 months)

• Brush and floss daily

• Wear a mouthguard during sports

• Avoid chewing ice or hard foods

• Don’t use your teeth as tools

• Get dental issues treated promptly

• Use nightguards if you grind your teeth

By staying ahead of problems, you can reduce your risk of facing painful and costly emergencies.

Emergency Dental Care for Children

Children can also experience dental emergencies, including knocked-out baby teeth, dental trauma, or toothaches. It’s vital to contact a dentist immediately if:

• A permanent tooth is knocked out

• There’s facial swelling or pain

• There’s bleeding that won’t stop

Paediatric dentists or general dental practitioners with experience in child care are best suited for managing these situations.

What to Expect at Your Emergency Dental Appointment

Here’s what typically happens during an emergency visit:

1. Assessment – The dentist will examine the problem area, ask about symptoms, and possibly take X-rays.

2. Diagnosis – Based on the findings, they’ll provide a diagnosis and treatment plan.

3. Immediate Relief – Pain relief or temporary treatment is provided straight away.

4. Follow-up Care – You may be scheduled for a full treatment or referred to a specialist.

If antibiotics are prescribed, they’re usually paired with further treatment to fully resolve the issue.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I go to A&E for tooth pain?

A&E should only be visited for severe dental emergencies involving swelling that affects breathing or swallowing, or trauma causing facial injuries. For all other cases, contact a dentist or NHS 111.

2. Do all dentists offer emergency appointments?

Not all do, but many dental clinics set aside emergency slots daily. If yours doesn’t, you can visit an NHS urgent care centre or find a private emergency dentist.

3. Can I get emergency dental treatment without being registered?

Yes, you can still access emergency care whether or not you're registered with a dentist, though you may need to go through NHS 111 or a private clinic.

4. What should I do if my child knocks out a tooth?

Try to find the tooth, keep it moist (in milk), and contact a dentist immediately. Avoid scrubbing or touching the root.

5. Can emergency dentists provide permanent fixes?

In some cases, yes. But often the initial visit focuses on pain relief and stabilisation. Follow-up visits may be needed for permanent treatment.

Final Thoughts

Dental emergencies are stressful, painful, and often happen when you least expect them. Having access to a reliable emergency dentist is essential for immediate relief, protecting your oral health, and preventing further complications.

Whether it’s a throbbing toothache, a knocked-out tooth, or an abscess, prompt action is key. Know the signs of a true emergency, act fast, and don’t hesitate to contact a dental professional.

Regular care, preventive habits, and knowing who to call in a crisis can make all the difference when a dental emergency strikes.