Question: How do I find a dentist at the weekend?
Explanation: Most routine dental practices are closed at weekends. Patients registered with a practice should telephone it first, as the answerphone message usually directs callers to an out-of-hours arrangement. Those without a regular dentist can contact a local urgent dental care service or a private emergency dental clinic, many of which operate at weekends in larger towns and cities. For symptoms that threaten life, such as difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing, or uncontrolled bleeding, attend a hospital emergency department rather than searching for a dentist.
Related Questions:
Can I go to a hospital emergency department with toothache?
Emergency departments do not provide dental treatment and cannot perform extractions or root canal treatment. They can manage life-threatening infection, airway compromise, uncontrolled bleeding, and facial fractures. For pain alone, an emergency dental service is far more likely to resolve the problem.
What should I do if I cannot reach any dentist at the weekend?
Manage the pain with ibuprofen and paracetamol at recommended doses, staggered, unless contraindicated. Keep the area clean with warm salt water rinses. Avoid applying heat to the face. Seek dental care as soon as services reopen, and attend a hospital if swelling or fever develops.
Are weekend emergency dental appointments more expensive?
Private emergency clinics typically charge a premium for out-of-hours attendance, and fees vary considerably between providers. It is entirely reasonable to ask about the cost when telephoning, before agreeing to attend.
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