Abstract
Answer C. Sign-post the patient to NHS 111 to register with a dental practice and book an emergency appointment
The treatment of a dental abscess is usually drainage rather than antibiotic treatment. It is therefore not usually recommended for GPs or any clinician who is not dentally trained and qualified to give patients antibiotics. Many GPs feel under pressure to prescribe analgesia or antibiotics for patients with dental problems if they are not registered with a dentist or report they are unable to get an appointment. Even in such cases, the British Medical Association (BMA) advises that ‘treatment of dental problems is not the responsibility of the GP’. GPs are not trained, expected or often indemnified to deal with dental problems. If the patient is not registered with a dentist or is unable to get an appointment with their dentist, they should contact the local NHS 111 (England), NHS 24 (Scotland), NHS direct or local dental helplines (Wales). In an emergency situation, clinicians can contact their local maxillofacial team for advice. In life-threatening situations, contacting or referring to the local emergency department may be more appropriate.
InnovAiT article: Managing dental emergencies in general practice. DOI: 10.1177/1755738018766963.