Dental health
Taking care of your teeth and mouth is important, but finding where to go for support and advice can be challenging.
You don’t pay for NHS dental services if:
- you’re under 18
- pregnant or have had a baby in the
- last 12 months
- receiving benefits such as Income Support, Employment and Support Allowance, Jobseeker’s Allowance and Universal Credit (in some cases)
Find out what dental services are available on the NHS.
Looking After Your Children’s Teeth
Teaching your child about brushing their teeth creates good habits that last a lifetime. Tooth decay can make eating and talking hard. In this video Holly shares seven tips to help your children look after their teeth.
Find a Dentist
Dental Emergency and Out-of-Hours Care
If you have a local, they may offer emergency dental appointments. You can also call NHS 111. They can put you in touch with an urgent dental service.
Do not contact a GP – they cannot offer urgent or emergency dental care.
When to contact NHS 111
Call NHS 111 or NHS 111 online – dental help if you have:
- severe pain
- heavy bleeding
- swelling of your mouth, throat, neck or eye
When to use Accident and Emergency (A&E) at your local hospital
Only visit A&E in serious situations, like:
- injuries to the face, mouth or teeth
- swelling in your mouth, throat or neck, making it difficult to breathe, swallow or speak
If you’re not sure if you should go to A&E, contact NHS 111 online – help with symptoms.
Oral Health Foundation
The Oral Health Foundation’s website has loads of information and teaching materials for parents, carers and people working with children.
All About Teeth – a great guide to teeth.
A-Z or Oral Health – an online directory of oral health information.
Oral Health Foundation shop – toothbrushes, toothpaste, reward charts and stickers, tooth brushing models and posters to inspire. There’s plenty more on their website to read and download. Have a browse.