Can a Dentist Prescribe Painkillers in the UK?

Yes. Dentists in the UK can prescribe painkillers when the pain is related to a dental problem or dental treatment. They can also advise you on the best over-the-counter options and dosing, and will focus on treating the cause of the pain (for example, tooth decay, infection, or trauma), not just masking symptoms.

What Might a Dentist Prescribe?

The exact medicine depends on your diagnosis, medical history and any current medications. Common options include:

• Paracetamol for general pain relief.
• Ibuprofen (if suitable for you) to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Combination painkillers for short-term use when pain is more severe.

In some cases, your dentist may also prescribe antibiotics if there is a spreading dental infection. Antibiotics are not painkillers and are only used when clinically indicated.

When Will a Dentist Prescribe Painkillers?

• When dental pain is moderate to severe and over-the-counter options are not enough.
• After certain procedures (for example, extractions or root canal treatment).
• When you cannot take specific over-the-counter medicines due to medical reasons.

What Dentists Will Not Do

• They will not provide long-term painkiller prescriptions for non-dental conditions.
• They will not rely on painkillers alone without addressing the underlying dental cause.
• They will not prescribe medicines that are unsafe for you based on your medical history.

Important Safety Tips

• Follow the dose on the label or as prescribed. Do not take more than recommended.
• Do not take multiple products that contain paracetamol at the same time.
• Avoid ibuprofen if you have been told it is unsuitable (for example, certain stomach, kidney, heart, or asthma conditions), unless your dentist or doctor says otherwise.
• Tell your dentist about all medicines you take, including supplements.
• If pain is not improving, contact your dentist for review.

Treating the Cause of Dental Pain

Painkillers provide short-term relief, but lasting comfort comes from treating the source. Depending on the problem, your dentist may recommend a filling, root canal treatment, gum treatment, replacement of a cracked filling or crown, or an extraction.

When to Seek Urgent Help

• Facial swelling, fever, or a bad taste with discharge (possible abscess).
• Difficulty swallowing, breathing, or opening your mouth fully.
• Severe pain that does not respond to painkillers.

If you have any of the above, contact a dentist immediately. If you are struggling to breathe or swallow, seek emergency care.

Getting Help at Glow Dental

If you are in pain, we can assess the cause, provide safe pain relief, and carry out the right treatment to stop the problem from returning. We offer same-day emergency appointments whenever possible.