The West Midlands has expanded access to urgent dental care with the introduction of additional NHS appointments. This initiative is part of a nationwide rollout providing 700,000 extra urgent dental visits to patients across England.
These appointments cater to those experiencing severe dental issues, such as acute toothache, dental abscesses, broken or knocked-out teeth, oral bleeding or swelling, and severe gum bleeding. Pain from fractured, loose, or displaced fillings also qualifies as an urgent condition.
While dentists may offer additional treatments depending on individual cases, these might involve extra visits or associated costs.
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Patients seeking urgent dental care can find guidance and book appointments by visiting the NHS 111 website or calling 111 directly. Registration with a specific dental practice is not required to access these urgent appointments.
Adam Morby, Regional Chief Dental Officer for NHS England Midlands, emphasized the significance of improved access: “We recognize how crucial urgent dental care is for residents in the West Midlands. These extra appointments help ensure patients receive timely treatment when in pain. Please refer to our website for the list of conditions eligible for care through this service.”
Morby also highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance NHS dentistry across the region, including workforce recruitment, retention, and training programs.
Dr. Mohammad Shaikh from Dudley, who regularly handles urgent dental cases, confirmed the progress: “Patients often contact us directly or are referred via 111. Recently, I treated a patient requiring a same-day tooth extraction due to severe pain. Though waits were longer last year, emergency dental services have markedly improved, making it easier for patients to get an appointment promptly.”
This expansion marks a significant step toward addressing urgent dental needs and improving patient access to timely NHS dental care in the West Midlands.