Dental Policy

GP’s do not treat dental problems  

If you have a tooth or gum problem, please see your dentist about this.  Dentists have a responsibility to offer emergency appointments, where needed.

GP’s do not have the necessary training to assess and treat dental problems

If your dentist is unable to provide an appointment for you, information on how to access emergency dental appointments can be found on the NHS website.

Emergency Dental Services

• GP’s are not responsible for treating dental problems.
• GP’s should not attempt to manage a condition requiring dental skills unless they have appropriate training.
• Both the civil courts and the GMC require doctors to have appropriate skills for any treatment they offer.
• Patients should be advised to contact local emergency dental services or the emergency department.
• General dental practitioners have an ethical responsibility to provide access to advice and emergency treatment for patients, including those under a private contract.
• General dental practitioners have an ethical responsibility to provide access to emergency treatment outside normal hours.
• NHS commissioning bodies are responsible for out-of-hours dental care.
• Most provide emergency out-of-hours dental treatment, and they may also buy in hours open access urgent sessions from dental practices.