A GP is not appropriately trained to deal with dental problems. This includes toothaches, abscesses and problems experienced after dental treatment. We cannot provide antibiotics as it is necessary to have a full assessment before prescribing such things.

We would therefore suggest patients register with and attend regularly a dentist who can provide appropriate routine and emergency advice. Dentists offer a 24 hour emergency service. Out of normal surgery hours, this service is only for urgent dental treatment that cannot wait until the next working day to be treated.

For emergency dental treatment outside normal working hours, registered patients should contact their dental surgery. Most surgeries have an answering machine message referring you to out-of-hours information.

If there is no message please ring NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.