Understanding non-traumatic dental presentations to emergency and urgent care: a critically appraised topic

Non-traumatic dental presentations place a significant burden on emergency and urgent care services in England. This article details a critically appraised topic that asked: 'What factors are contributing to non-traumatic dental presentations to emergency and urgent care services?' A systematic literature search covering the period 2010 to 2025 identified four studies: two systematic reviews and two retrospective observational studies. Data extraction focused on sociodemographic, service-related and clinical drivers. Common presenting conditions included untreated caries, abscesses and infections. Socioeconomic deprivation, limited access to NHS dentistry and frequent out-of-hours attendance were consistent drivers. Study quality and geographic scope varied, with one large meta-analysis relying substantially on US data, which limits transferability to the UK. Addressing service availability, prevention and care pathways, plus targeted education for healthcare practitioners, could reduce inappropriate attendances and relieve pressure on emergency and urgent care.