Emergency dental care in the UK can be accessed through the NHS or private clinics, but costs vary depending on your eligibility and the type of treatment required. Some patients qualify for free NHS emergency care, while others pay a fixed subsidised fee. This guide explains what you’ll pay, what qualifies as an emergency, and what to do if you need urgent treatment in Aberdeen or anywhere in the UK.
A dental emergency in Aberdeen can be painful and stressful, especially when you’re unsure about the cost of treatment. Whether you’re dealing with severe toothache, swelling, trauma, or a broken tooth, knowing your options helps you act quickly. This guide explains how NHS and private emergency dental costs work, who qualifies for free care, and how to get urgent help fast.
What Is Considered Emergency Dental Care?
Emergency dental care is needed when a dental issue causes intense pain, bleeding, or poses a risk of worsening without immediate attention. This includes severe toothache, broken or knocked-out teeth, infections, abscesses, swelling, or uncontrolled oral bleeding. These situations require same-day or urgent treatment to prevent complications.
Can a Tooth Infection Self-Heal?
Common Dental Emergencies (Examples)
- Severe or constant tooth pain
- Broken or chipped teeth
- Knocked-out teeth
- Facial swelling or abscess
- Infection with fever
- Uncontrolled gum or mouth bleeding
- Trauma from accidents or injury
Will an Emergency Dentist Extract a Tooth?
Cost of Emergency Dental Care in the UK (NHS vs Private)
NHS Emergency Dental Costs
The NHS provides emergency dental treatment at fixed, subsidised rates. Costs fall under NHS bands and include consultation, diagnosis, and essential urgent treatment.
Band Fees Include:
- Band 1 – Exam, X-rays, diagnosis, pain relief
- Band 2 – Fillings, extractions, root canals
- Band 3 – Advanced restorative work (crowns, dentures, bridges)
Costs remain fixed nationwide, offering predictable and affordable pricing.
How to Know If a Tooth Infection Spreads to the Brain?
Private Emergency Dental Care
Private emergency appointments offer faster access and extended hours but cost more. Fees vary depending on the clinic and the treatment required. Some private clinics offer same-day appointments, but procedures such as extractions or root canals can be several hundred pounds.
What Happens if a Decayed Tooth Is Not Extracted?
Holburn Dental & Implant Centre
Get Fast Emergency Care Today
If you’re experiencing severe pain, swelling, a broken tooth, or any dental emergency, Holburn Dental & Implant Centre is ready to help.
Our experienced emergency team offers same-day relief and effective treatment options.
📞 Book your emergency appointment now and get immediate professional care.
Step-by-Step – What To Do in a Dental Emergency
- Call your registered NHS dentist immediately for an emergency appointment.
- If unregistered or outside hours, call NHS 111 for an emergency referral.
- If choosing private care, contact local private clinics for same-day availability and confirm costs.
FAQs (From People Also Ask)
What counts as a dental emergency in the UK?
Any urgent issue such as severe pain, swelling, knocked-out teeth, infection, or uncontrolled bleeding is considered a dental emergency.
Do I have to pay for emergency dental treatment?
Yes, unless you qualify for free NHS care. NHS emergency charges are fixed and affordable compared to private fees.
Who can get free emergency dental care?
Children, pregnant women, certain benefit recipients, and those eligible for the NHS Low Income Scheme can receive free emergency care.
Will an emergency dentist extract a tooth?
If necessary, yes. Emergency dentists may extract a tooth if it is severely infected, fractured, or causing extreme pain.
How quickly can I get an emergency appointment?
NHS waiting times vary. Private clinics often provide same-day appointments, but they cost more.
Author Details
Written by:
Holburn Dental & Implant Centre Clinical Team
Reviewed by:
Lead Emergency Dentist, Aberdeen
Last Updated:
February 2025
