Do I need to be a registered patient?

No. We see both registered and non-registered patients for dental emergencies. Just call us and we'll fit you in as quickly as we can.

Can I be seen the same day?

In most cases, yes. We keep slots available each day specifically for emergencies. The earlier you call, the more likely we can see you at a time that suits, but we'll always do our best even at short notice.

How much does an emergency appointment cost?

The cost depends on the treatment needed. We'll always explain the fees before we start, so there are no surprises. If further work is required after the initial emergency visit, we'll give you a clear plan and price.

What should I do if I knock a tooth out?

Pick the tooth up by the crown (the white part), not the root. If you can, gently push it back into the socket and hold it in place. If that isn't possible, keep it in a small container of milk. Then call us straight away. Time is critical: the best outcomes happen within 30 minutes.

What if I have an emergency outside of opening hours?

Call our main number and the voicemail will direct you to the appropriate out-of-hours service. If you're in severe pain, have uncontrolled bleeding or significant facial swelling, go directly to your nearest A&E.

Can I take painkillers before my appointment?

Yes. Ibuprofen is usually the most effective for dental pain, as it reduces both pain and inflammation. Paracetamol is a good alternative. Avoid aspirin if there's any bleeding, and don't place painkillers directly on the gum as this can cause a burn.

Emergency dentistry

Emergency dentist in Muswell Hill

Dental emergencies don't wait, and neither do we. If you're in pain, have a broken tooth or need urgent care, call us and we'll do everything we can to see you the same day.

Same-day emergency appointments
Pain relief and stabilisation as a priority
Open to new patients and non-registered patients

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5.0 on Google Same-day emergency appointments Same-day appointments Open to non-registered patients Non-registered welcome

Patient receiving emergency dental care at St James Dental Surgery in Muswell Hill

Emergency — What Counts (Stage)

Do I need urgent care?

What counts as a dental emergency

Emergency

Severe toothache

Pain that won't go away

What's happening

Persistent, throbbing pain that won't respond to over-the-counter painkillers. This is often a sign of infection, nerve damage or a deep crack, and it needs prompt treatment to prevent the problem getting worse.

While you wait

Take ibuprofen if you can. Avoid very hot or cold food and drink. Don't place aspirin directly on the gum.

Call us now

Not sure if it's an emergency?

Call us anyway. We'll talk you through it and get you seen if you need to be.

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What to expect

What happens when you call us

We keep it simple. Call, come in, and we'll take care of the rest. Here's what to expect from the moment you pick up the phone.

Step 1

Call us

Phone the practice and tell us what's happened. We'll give you immediate first-aid advice and book you in for the earliest available slot, usually the same day.

Step 2

Assessment

We examine the area carefully, take any X-rays needed and work out exactly what's going on. We'll explain everything clearly before we do anything.

Step 3

Pain relief

Getting you comfortable is the first priority. We'll numb the area, manage any infection with antibiotics if needed and make sure you're out of pain before moving forward.

Step 4

Treatment

Whether it's repairing a fracture, draining an abscess, re-cementing a crown or stabilising a knocked-out tooth, we carry out the treatment there and then wherever possible.

Step 5

Follow-up plan

Before you leave, we run through aftercare, prescribe anything you need, and book any follow-up appointments. You'll know exactly what to expect next.

Emergency dental care at St James Dental Surgery in Muswell Hill

In pain right now?

Call our emergency dentist in Muswell Hill

Don't wait for it to get worse. Call us now and we'll do everything we can to see you today. We welcome both registered and non-registered patients for emergencies.