If you need urgent dental care for any of the following conditions, you can book an urgent appointment via NHS111 or by phoning 111.

  • Severe toothache: persistent and intense pain that cannot be managed with over-the-counter painkillers.
  • Dental abscess: infection causing swelling, pain, and possibly fever.
  • Broken or knocked-out tooth: trauma resulting in a fractured or completely dislodged tooth.
  • Uncontrolled bleeding: bleeding in mouth that doesn’t stop maybe following a dental procedure or an injury.
  • Swelling: significant swelling in the mouth or face that could indicate an infection.
  • Fractured, loose or displaced fillings causing pain.
  • Bleeding gums requiring urgent treatment for acute conditions.
  • Other treatments may be available at the discretion of the dentist. These treatments may require extra visits and costs.

Frequently asked questions – urgent dental appointments

How can I book an appointment?

You can book an urgent appointment via NHS111 or phoning 111.

What can I book an appointment for?

You can book for any of the following urgent conditions:

  • Severe toothache: persistent and intense pain that cannot be managed with over-the-counter painkillers.
  • Dental abscess: infection causing swelling, pain, and possibly fever.
  • Broken or knocked-out tooth: trauma resulting in a fractured or completely dislodged tooth.
  • Uncontrolled bleeding: bleeding in mouth that doesn’t stop maybe following a dental procedure or an injury.
  • Swelling: significant swelling in the mouth or face that could indicate an infection.
  • Fractured, loose or displaced fillings causing pain.
  • Bleeding gums requiring urgent treatment for acute conditions.
  • Other treatments may be available at the discretion of the dentist. These treatments may require extra visits and costs.

Do I need to be registered with the practice?

No, you do not need to be registered with an NHS dental practice to book an urgent appointment.

Will I have to pay for NHS dental treatment? 

Most adults need to pay for NHS dental appointments and dental treatment. Some people can get free NHS dental treatment, or help with part of the cost of treatment.

For information on the costs of NHS dental treatment please see the NHS website: How much NHS dental treatment costs - NHS