Toothache is your body telling you something needs attention. Here is how to manage it while you arrange to be seen.

While you wait

• Rinse gently with warm, salty water
• Take paracetamol or ibuprofen as directed on the packet, if they are safe for you
• Avoid very hot, cold or sugary food on that side
• Hold a cold compress against your cheek for swelling

When to call us

If the pain is severe, keeps you awake, or comes with swelling or a temperature, do not wait it out. Call us; we keep same-day slots for urgent problems. Out of hours, call NHS 111 for urgent dental advice.

Call 999 or go to A&E if swelling affects your breathing, swallowing or vision, or if bleeding will not stop.