In many countries, patients with dental pain often consult general practitioners (GPs), even though such care is usually inadequate. This study aimed to estimate the frequency of dental emergency consultations in general practice and to describe GPs’ behavior and patients’ care pathways.

A cross-sectional observational survey was conducted using self-administered questionnaires distributed via professional bodies and social media.

A total of 342 GPs participated, 68% of whom reported receiving at least one dental pain or dental infection consultation each week. These consultations were significantly less frequent in departments with a high density of dentists (p<0.001). Across all regions, over 90% of GPs frequently or very frequently heard patients explain that their dentist’s next available appointment was too far away or that the dentist themselves had advised them to seek medical consultation before the dental visit. Only one third of GPs felt confident managing these consultations, and 95% reported prescribing antibiotics often or systematically. Finally, 77% redirected patients to a dentist.

Although GPs are less frequently consulted in areas with a higher density of dentists, our findings also highlight a delegation of dental emergency care to primary care physicians. This suggests that recourse to GPs does not depend solely on territorial distribution but reflects a more complex dynamic involving professionals’ accessibility and availability, as well as patients’ perceptions.

Strengthening GPs’ training in oral health could improve both their confidence and the appropriateness of management. However, a sustainable response requires simultaneous action on both the supply and demand sides of care: by supporting greater involvement of dentists in non-scheduled care, improving their territorial distribution and integration into coordinated care structures, and encouraging patients to make greater use of preventive consultations.