Dental emergencies are never convenient. Whether it’s a throbbing toothache in the middle of the night, a broken tooth after a weekend rugby match, or a lost filling during Sunday dinner, these situations require prompt attention. Fortunately, if you find yourself in such a situation in the West Midlands, an Out of Hours Dentist in Birmingham may be your saving grace.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to do in a dental emergency, how to find urgent care, what services to expect, and how to prepare for your out-of-hours visit.

 

What is an Out of Hours Dentist?

An Out of Hours Dentist is a dental professional or clinic that offers services outside of regular working hours — usually evenings, nights, weekends, and bank holidays. These services are designed specifically for urgent cases that cannot wait until the next business day.

Typical working hours for most dentists are between 9am and 5pm. So, if you experience intense pain or trauma outside of these hours, an Out of Hours Dentist in Birmingham ensures you don’t have to suffer overnight or during the weekend.

 

 

 

Common Reasons to Visit an Out of Hours Dentist

Urgent dental care is not just about pain. Some dental problems can worsen quickly if left untreated. Here are common reasons people seek out-of-hours dental help:

• Severe toothache that doesn’t subside with painkillers
• Chipped, cracked, or broken tooth due to injury
• Knocked-out tooth (especially important to treat immediately)
• Lost fillings or crowns causing discomfort or sensitivity
• Bleeding gums or post-surgery bleeding
• Swelling in the face or jaw
• Signs of infection, such as abscesses, pus, or fever

These situations can’t wait until Monday morning — and that’s where an out-of-hours service steps in.

 

 

 

Where to Find an Out of Hours Dentist in Birmingham

 

1. NHS Emergency Dental Services

The NHS provides urgent dental treatment through local dental access centres. You can call NHS 111, a free 24/7 service, which will assess your symptoms and direct you to an appropriate service.

You may be offered:

• A same-day appointment
• Telephone advice
• Referral to an urgent care centre

Keep in mind that NHS emergency appointments are limited and prioritised based on urgency.

 

2. Private Emergency Dentists

Several private dental clinics in Birmingham offer out-of-hours services. Though these come at a higher cost than NHS options, they often have more flexible appointments and faster response times.

Some trusted private providers include:

• 24-hour dental clinics in central Birmingham
• Dental practices offering weekend or evening slots
• Mobile emergency dentist services

Search online for reviews and call ahead to confirm availability.

 

 

What to Expect During Your Emergency Visit

When visiting an Out of Hours Dentist in Birmingham, your care will be focused on resolving the immediate problem. Full treatment plans are usually scheduled later.

You can expect:

• A thorough assessment of your symptoms
• Temporary relief, such as pain control, draining of abscesses, or temporary fillings
• Advice on long-term treatment
• A follow-up appointment during normal hours if necessary

 

How Much Does It Cost?

 

NHS Emergency Costs

If you access an out-of-hours NHS dentist, the cost usually falls under Band 1 treatment, which covers:

• Emergency examination
• Diagnosis
• Pain relief
• Temporary fillings or dressings

As of 2025, Band 1 treatment costs £25.80 in England, but this is subject to change.

 

 

Tips for Managing a Dental Emergency Before You Reach the Dentist

While you wait for your appointment, try these temporary relief tips:

• Toothache: Take over-the-counter pain relief (e.g. ibuprofen), and avoid hot or cold food and drinks.
• Knocked-out tooth: Hold it by the crown (not the root), rinse gently, and try to place it back in the socket. If not possible, store it in milk.
• Swelling: Apply a cold compress to the outside of the cheek and avoid lying flat.
• Bleeding: Bite down gently on a clean cloth or gauze.

These won’t replace professional care but can ease discomfort and prevent further damage.

 

 

How to Be Prepared for Future Emergencies

• Keep your regular dentist’s emergency contact number handy.
• Make a note of local clinics offering out-of-hours dental services.
• Keep basic dental first-aid supplies at home (e.g. dental wax, pain relief, salt for rinses).
• Schedule regular dental check-ups to catch problems early.

 

Final Thoughts

Dental emergencies are unpredictable, but with a little preparation and the right knowledge, they don’t have to be overwhelming. Whether it’s the middle of the night or during a Sunday roast, an Out of Hours Dentist in Birmingham can provide swift, professional help when you need it most.