# What should I do about severe toothache?

Source: https://thelocaldentist.co.uk/answers/what-should-i-do-about-severe-toothache/
Updated: 2026-07-13

## Quick answer

Call your dental practice for an emergency slot, or NHS 111 if you have no dentist or it is out of hours. Toothache alone is not an A&E problem. Go to A&E or call 999 if facial swelling affects breathing or swallowing, bleeding will not stop, or you have serious facial trauma.

## Key facts

- Practice first for same-day urgent slots; otherwise call NHS 111
- A&E / 999: swelling affecting breathing or swallowing, uncontrolled bleeding, trauma
- Severe pain alone still needs urgent dental care — not hospital dentistry for the toothache itself
- Urgent NHS dental treatment in England costs £27.90
- A pharmacist can advise on pain relief while you wait to be seen
- This is general information, not a diagnosis — speak to a dentist or 111 for your situation

Editorial content from The Local Dentist — not clinical advice.