A dental emergency rarely arrives at a convenient moment. Whether it is a tooth knocked out during sport, sudden severe pain in the night or a crown that has come loose before an important event, knowing what to do — and quickly — can make a real difference to the outcome. This guide covers the most common dental emergencies, the first steps to take, how to find help in Nottingham, and what you are likely to pay.
What counts as a dental emergency?
Some situations genuinely need same-day or next-day attention. Others are urgent but can wait a few days without worsening. The following usually require prompt care:
A knocked-out (avulsed) permanent tooth — the faster you act, the better the chance of saving it.
Severe or persistent toothache that is not controlled by over-the-counter painkillers.
A dental abscess: swelling in the gum or jaw, fever, or difficulty swallowing.
A broken tooth with a sharp edge causing injury to the tongue or cheek.
A crown, bridge or filling that has come off and is causing pain or sensitivity.
Significant bleeding that does not stop within 30 minutes of firm pressure.
Things that feel urgent but can usually wait a day or two include a chipped tooth that is not painful, a slightly loose crown that is still in place and comfortable, or a lost filling with no pain.
What to do in the first hour
The first steps you take can significantly affect the outcome, particularly if a tooth has been knocked out.
Knocked-out tooth: handle it by the crown (the white part), not the root. Rinse it gently with milk or saline — not tap water. Try to re-seat it in the socket if possible; if not, keep it in a small container of milk. Get to a dentist within 30 to 60 minutes.
Toothache: rinse with warm salt water, take your usual pain relief (ibuprofen tends to work better than paracetamol for dental pain, unless contraindicated), and avoid putting aspirin directly on the gum.
Abscess: do not attempt to burst it yourself. Take pain relief and contact your dentist as soon as possible — a spreading infection can become serious.
Broken tooth: rinse your mouth, cover any sharp edges with dental wax if available, and avoid chewing on that side.
Bleeding: bite firmly on a clean gauze pad or folded cloth for at least 20 to 30 minutes without lifting it to check.
Who to call in Nottingham
Your first call should be your own dental practice. Most practices — including Pear Tree Dental — keep appointments available for registered patients who are in pain or have an urgent problem. If you call first thing in the morning, there is usually a good chance of being seen the same day.
At Pear Tree Dental in Nottingham, you can call us on 0115 931 2935 or book online. Explain the nature of your emergency so we can prioritise appropriately.
If you are not registered with a dentist or cannot get through to your practice, you can call NHS 111 (free, 24 hours), which can direct you to an emergency dental service or an NHS urgent dental centre. In Nottingham, NHS urgent dental centres operate through a triage system — you will usually be assessed by phone first.
For a true medical emergency — such as severe swelling affecting your airway, an uncontrolled bleed, or signs of serious infection spreading to your neck or face — go to A&E or call 999.
What does emergency dental treatment cost?
Costs depend on whether you are treated under the NHS or privately, and on what needs to be done.
NHS emergency treatment falls under Band 1 (£26.80 in 2025/26) if it covers only an examination and some pain relief, or Band 2 (£73.50) if it includes fillings, extractions or root canal treatment. If you need a crown, the Band 3 charge of £319.10 applies. These charges cover all treatment needed in a course of care, not per item. If you are exempt from NHS charges — for example if you are pregnant, on certain benefits, or under 18 — treatment is free.
Private emergency appointments vary by practice. A typical private emergency examination in Nottingham might range from £60 to £150; any subsequent treatment is charged separately. Private treatment is usually faster to access and may allow more choice of material and approach. At Pear Tree Dental we can discuss costs clearly before proceeding, so you are not surprised.
How to avoid dental emergencies
Attend regular check-ups so problems are caught before they become urgent.
Wear a mouthguard for contact sport — most dental trauma is preventable.
Do not use your teeth as tools to open packaging or bottles.
If you grind your teeth at night, ask about an occlusal splint to protect your teeth and restorations.
Regular check-ups at Pear Tree Dental help spot issues early. Book a routine appointment or explore our full range of dental services.
FAQ
Q: Can I walk in without an appointment for a dental emergency in Nottingham? A: Most practices do not accept walk-ins without at least a phone call first. Call ahead so staff can assess the urgency and prepare for you — it will usually get you seen faster than arriving unannounced.
Q: Will I be charged for an emergency appointment? A: Yes, unless you are exempt from NHS charges. NHS emergency treatment is charged by band (starting at £26.80). Private practices charge separately for the appointment and any treatment. Always ask about costs before agreeing to treatment.
Q: My filling fell out but it does not hurt — is it still an emergency? A: Not usually. A pain-free lost filling can wait a few days, but it is worth booking soon as the exposed tooth can become sensitive or decay more quickly without protection.
Q: I have severe dental pain at night — what should I do? A: Take appropriate pain relief (ibuprofen if tolerated), try rinsing with warm salt water, and call your dentist first thing in the morning. If you cannot manage the pain or have signs of facial swelling, call NHS 111. For an appointment at Pear Tree Dental, call 0115 931 2935 or book online.