NHS Guidance on GP and Dental Care

In accordance with NHS policy, dental problems must be managed by a qualified dentist. GPs are not trained or equipped to handle dental conditions, and prescriptions for dental issues should only be provided by a dentist.

Treating patients with dental problems is not within our NHS contract or clinical responsibility as a GP practice, even if a patient is not registered with a dentist. This is because:

1. GPs are not trained to deal with dental issues.
2. There is a legal restriction on who can provide dental care.

If you have dental concerns, NHS guidelines advise the following:

Routine Care or Emergencies: 

• Register with an NHS dentist for regular care.
• For urgent dental issues, contact an NHS dentist directly or use NHS 111 to find an emergency dental service.

Emergency Support: 

• NHS 111 can guide you if you’re unable to access an NHS dentist and need urgent help.