A case of accidental paracetamol overdose in a patient suffering from pericoronitis is described. Self-medication with paracetamol was exacerbated by the prescription of a compound analgesic containing paracetamol by the patient's dental practitioner. The consequent overdose of paracetamol resulted in liver toxicity and acute liver failure. The hazards of accidental paracetamol overdose are discussed and analgesic preparations containing paracetamol described.