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This advice is for use when the surgery is closed.

You must contact the dentist as soon as possible.

 

If you are in pain.

 

Get a strong pain killer. Paramol or Solpadene are effective but check with the pharmacist if you have any medical conditions or are taking any other medication BEFORE you take them and do not exceed the dosage on the packaging. DO NOT use any medication in the mouth which is not made to be used in the mouth.

 

 

If you have a swelling.

 

You have probably got an abscess. Providing the swelling is in your mouth or on your face you must start doing hot salt water mouthwashes. Make up a mug of water as hot as you can stand to hold in your mouth and dissolve 1 teaspoon of salt in it. Take a mouthful and hold it over the lump or affected tooth until it cools down. Repeat this until the cup is empty and if possible make up a new cup immediately and do the mouthwashes continuously until the lump bursts.  Contact the dentist as soon as they reopen.

If your swelling is in your neck or throat and you have difficulty breathing or swallowing you must contact the nearest hospital accident and emergency unit immediately.

 

Lost crowns or Bridges.

 

These are not emergencies and you must contact the surgery when we are open.

 

For further advice you can call NHS Direct on 08454647.

 

 

Over the Christmas Holidays, other arrangements are made. Details are on the Important Christmas Information page which can only be accessed from the Christmas Home page.