Urgent dental care
Emergency Dentist in Leicester
Toothache, a broken tooth, a lost filling — whatever has happened, our team at Anstey Family Dental Centre is here to help. We reserve time each day for urgent patients.
What to do
What to do in a dental emergency
1. Call us first
Ring us as early as possible. We keep emergency slots available each day and will try to see you the same day.
0116 236 25342. Out of hours?
If the practice is closed, call NHS 111 (free, 24 hours). They can direct you to an out-of-hours emergency dental service near you.
Call NHS 1113. Severe symptoms?
Go to A&E or call 999 if you have severe swelling affecting your breathing or swallowing, or a serious facial injury.
Common situations
Common dental emergencies — what to do while you wait
Severe toothache
Take over-the-counter painkillers (ibuprofen or paracetamol) following the packet instructions. Avoid very hot, cold or sweet foods. Call us as soon as possible — toothache rarely resolves on its own.
Broken or chipped tooth
Rinse your mouth with warm water. If the break is sharp and cutting your tongue, cover it with sugar-free gum or dental wax (available from pharmacies). Keep any broken pieces and bring them with you.
Lost filling or crown
Temporary dental cement (available from pharmacies) can protect the tooth until your appointment. Avoid chewing on that side. Contact us so we can fit you in promptly.
Knocked-out adult tooth
Act quickly — speed is critical. Hold the tooth by the crown (not the root), rinse gently with milk or clean water, and try to replace it in the socket. If that isn't possible, keep it in milk or between your cheek and gum. Call us immediately or head to A&E.
Swelling or abscess
A dental abscess is an infection and will not get better without treatment. Do not put off calling us. In the meantime, avoid hot foods and rinse gently with warm salty water. If swelling spreads to your face or neck, or makes it hard to breathe or swallow, go straight to A&E.
Bleeding that won't stop
Apply gentle pressure with a clean piece of gauze or cloth. Bite down and hold for 15–20 minutes. Avoid rinsing for the first few hours. If bleeding is heavy or won't stop after an hour, call us or go to A&E.
Out of hours — NHS 111
When Anstey Family Dental Centre is closed you can still get help. NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, free of charge. Trained advisers can assess your symptoms and direct you to an emergency dental service in Leicester or nearby.
Call Anstey Family Dental Centre now
Our Leicester team is here to help. Call during opening hours for a same-day emergency appointment, or book online where available.