Tooth Pain Relief & Dental Infection Advice
Tooth pain or a suspected tooth infection? Here's what you can do right now, when to get emergency help, and how our online dental assessment can provide clinician-led relief while you arrange to see a dentist.
Start Dental AssessmentSigns of a tooth infection
- Severe or throbbing tooth pain that may spread to your jaw, ear or neck
- A swollen, red or tender gum, sometimes with a pus-filled swelling (abscess)
- A bad taste or smell in your mouth
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Sensitivity to hot or cold food and drink
Dental pain relief you can try now
- Take over-the-counter painkillers, following the dose on the pack.
- Hold a cold compress against your cheek for up to 15 minutes at a time.
- Rinse gently with warm salt water.
- Avoid very hot, cold or sugary food and drink, and chew on the other side.
- Keep your head raised with an extra pillow when you sleep.
Never try to drain a swelling yourself. Self-care eases pain but does not clear an infection.
When it's an emergency
Call 999 or go to A&E straight away if you have:
- Swelling spreading to your eye or neck
- Difficulty breathing, swallowing or opening your mouth
- A high temperature or you feel very unwell
For other urgent dental advice, contact NHS 111.
How our online dental assessment helps
- Create your secure account.
- Answer a short dental questionnaire and upload photos of your mouth.
- Pay £34.99, which covers review, treatment if approved and delivery.
- A UK clinician reviews your case, usually within 24 hours, 24/7.
- Verify your ID, and approved prescription treatment is sent by tracked UK delivery.
Interim relief only: prescription treatment is not a substitute for dental care. You must still see a dentist to treat the cause.
For UK residents aged 18+. Supplies are limited to one every 6 months and no more than two a year. Dispensed by a GPhC-registered UK pharmacy (9012762).
Start Dental AssessmentTooth infection FAQs
Can I get help for a tooth infection online?
Yes. UK residents aged 18 and over can complete our online dental assessment. A UK clinician reviews your answers and photos and, if suitable, prescribes treatment that is sent to you by tracked UK delivery.
How quickly is my assessment reviewed?
Assessments are reviewed around the clock, usually within 24 hours. Approved orders are dispatched by tracked UK delivery.
Do I still need to see a dentist?
Yes. Prescription treatment provides interim relief only. A dental infection needs a dentist to treat the underlying cause, so please arrange a dental appointment as soon as you can.
How much does it cost?
The assessment, clinician review, prescription treatment if approved and tracked UK delivery cost £34.99 in total.
When should I not use an online service?
If you have swelling spreading to your eye or neck, difficulty breathing or swallowing, a high temperature or feel very unwell, call 999 or go to A&E. For other urgent advice, contact NHS 111.
Ready to get help?
Start your online dental assessment in a few minutes.
Start Dental Assessment