What could toothache mean?

Toothache lasting more than 2 days, not controlled by pain relief, or accompanied by fever, pain on biting, red gums or a bad taste needs a dentist. Facial or neck swelling, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or swelling around the eye is an emergency.

Can a GP prescribe for toothache?

A GP cannot provide the dental procedure that treats the cause. Contact a dentist or NHS 111 for urgent dental access.

What can I do while waiting for a dentist?

Use suitable packet-directed pain relief, eat soft foods, avoid very hot or cold items and brush gently.

Do antibiotics cure toothache?

Not usually. Dental treatment is needed for decay or abscess; antibiotics are reserved for selected spreading or systemic infections.

Toothache: What It Means & When to See a GP

Common causes

Decay, a cracked tooth, a loose filling, gum disease, an abscess, wisdom teeth and tooth grinding can all cause pain.

Getting urgent dental care

Call your dentist first. If you do not have one or cannot access urgent care, NHS 111 can direct you to local services. Do not attend a GP surgery for dental treatment.

Until the appointment

Rinse gently with warm salt water if old enough to do so safely, keep food away from the painful side and avoid smoking.

Common questions about toothache

Can a GP prescribe for toothache?: A GP cannot provide the dental procedure that treats the cause. Contact a dentist or NHS 111 for urgent dental access.
What can I do while waiting for a dentist?: Use suitable packet-directed pain relief, eat soft foods, avoid very hot or cold items and brush gently.
Do antibiotics cure toothache?: Not usually. Dental treatment is needed for decay or abscess; antibiotics are reserved for selected spreading or systemic infections.

Sources

NHS — Toothache

How we reviewed this page

Medically reviewed by the HealthAnswers UK doctor review panel

First published: 1 August 2026
Medically reviewed: 1 August 2026
Next review due: 1 August 2029 or sooner if NHS or NICE guidance changes

Written by HealthAnswers editorial team. Published by HealthAnswers (Elite Digital AI Solutions Ltd). How we review content · Report a problem with this page