If you are experiencing a dental emergency in Aberdeen, acting quickly is essential. Severe tooth pain, facial swelling, or a broken tooth may require urgent treatment. During normal working hours, you should contact your regular NHS dentist first. If they are unavailable, NHS services can still help you access emergency care.
If you are unsure who to contact, call NHS 111 for urgent advice and guidance on accessing same-day dental care.
When to Seek Immediate Dental Care
If you are experiencing a Dental emergency in Aberdeen, you should seek urgent dental care or contact NHS 111 if you notice:
Severe or worsening tooth pain
Facial or gum swelling
Difficulty opening your mouth
Signs of infection, such as pus, fever, or a bad taste
Prompt treatment can prevent complications and reduce the risk of infection spreading.
Call 999 or Go to A&E Immediately If You Have:
Severe facial swelling affecting breathing or vision
Uncontrolled bleeding from the mouth
Dental trauma linked to unconsciousness or breathing difficulty
These are medical emergencies and require immediate hospital care.
Common Dental Emergencies and What to Do
Dental emergencies can vary in severity. Common issues include:
Severe toothache or gum pain
Broken or cracked teeth
Lost fillings or crowns
Dental trauma or mouth injuries
Swelling caused by abscesses or infections
For temporary relief, you may use pain relief medication and cold compresses. However, professional assessment should not be delayed.
Can a Pharmacist Help with Dental Problems?
Pharmacists can provide advice for minor dental issues. They may recommend painkillers, antiseptic mouthwashes, or gels to ease discomfort. While this can help short term, it does not replace dental treatment.
What to Do During Surgery Hours
If you are registered with a dentist, contact the practice as soon as possible. Most NHS dental practices aim to prioritise urgent cases and may offer same-day appointments depending on availability. Clearly explain your symptoms when booking so the team can assess urgency.
Out-of-Hours Dental Emergencies
For evenings, weekends, and public holidays, NHS 111 provides access to urgent dental services. They will assess your symptoms and direct you to an appropriate emergency dental provider if needed.
If You Are Not Registered with a Dentist
In Scotland, you can still access emergency NHS dental care even if you are not registered with a practice. Call NHS 111 to be directed to an available emergency dentist. Registering with a dentist afterward is recommended to support long-term oral health.
Emergency Dental Care in Aberdeen
Emergency dental services in Aberdeen focus on relieving pain, managing infection, and stabilising dental problems. Treatment may include:
Urgent pain relief and assessment
Care for broken, chipped, or knocked-out teeth
Treatment of infections and abscesses
Emergency fillings or temporary restorations
Follow-up care may be advised once the immediate issue is resolved.
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Managing Pain During a Dental Emergency
Pain control is a priority during emergency treatment. Dentists may use local anaesthetic or prescribe appropriate medication to reduce pain and inflammation quickly.
Dental Trauma: What to Do
If a tooth is knocked out, handle it only by the crown, not the root. Keep it moist in milk or saliva and seek urgent dental care. Quick action can increase the chance of saving the tooth.
Infections and Abscesses
Dental infections can spread if untreated. Warning signs include swelling, fever, and a foul taste. Emergency dental care may involve draining the infection and prescribing antibiotics when necessary.
Emergency Restorations
Lost fillings or crowns can expose sensitive areas and cause pain. Emergency treatment helps protect the tooth and restore comfort until permanent repairs are completed.
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Why Emergency Dental Care Matters
Fast access to urgent care
Effective pain relief
Early infection control
Reduced risk of complications
Prompt treatment improves outcomes and protects overall health.
Book an Emergency Appointment at Oldmachar Dental Care
If you need urgent dental treatment or advice about same-day NHS dentist appointments in Aberdeen, Oldmachar Dental Care is here to support you. The team provides prompt assessments, clear guidance, and patient-focused emergency care to help relieve pain and manage urgent dental problems safely and effectively.
Contact Oldmachar Dental Care today to arrange an emergency appointment or to get advice on accessing NHS dental care when you need it most.
Frequently Asked Question
Can I get emergency dental care if I’m not registered with a dentist?
Yes. In Scotland, emergency NHS dental care is available to everyone. Call NHS 111 for help.
Is emergency NHS dental treatment free?
Most people must pay NHS dental charges unless they qualify for an exemption.
How quickly can I be seen?
Same-day appointments are often available, depending on urgency and availability.
Can a pharmacist treat dental pain?
Pharmacists can provide temporary relief but cannot treat the underlying problem.
What should I do if a tooth is knocked out?
Keep it moist, handle it carefully, and seek emergency dental care immediately.