NHS treatments and costs
At mydentist, we believe everyone deserves access to high-quality affordable dentistry. That's why we offer three tiers of affordable dentistry - NHS dental care, myoptions private dental care and Premium private dental care - so you can choose the level of care that best suits your needs and budget.
Learn more about how much you could pay for your NHS dental treatment and what services are covered by the NHS. The NHS provides any clinically necessary treatment needed to keep your mouth, teeth and gums healthy and free of pain. For most patients, this will include examinations, rudimentary treatments, and preventative care. However, the NHS does also offer fillings, root canal work, extractions, and dental appliances where clinically necessary. The costs associated with these treatments will vary depending on which region you reside, please use our guide below to learn what treatment is available to you as an NHS patient.
Your dental care costs
NHS dental care at mydentist
When you visit a mydentist practice as an NHS patient, your clinician will assess and judge what treatments they consider to be appropriate. They will always make sure you are aware of what treatments are provided by the NHS and what treatments you may opt for on a private basis, should you need, along with associated costs.
How do I find an NHS dentist?
Here at mydentist, we work with our clinicians to provide you with access to both NHS and private dental care, to ensure you get the most out of your smile. If you’re currently looking for a new NHS dentist, we may be able to help. Use our search function to locate a mydentist practice offering NHS services close to you.
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Boost and maintain your mental wellbeing with quick and practical advice from Your Mind Plan, offered by the NHS. Visit your mind plan page for more info.
FAQs
Who is entitled to free NHS dental treatment?
If you would like information on Help with NHS dental costs please visit the NHSBSA website here: https://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/help-nhs-dental-costs.
When will I pay for NHS dental treatment?
Unless you are exempt, only some minor treatments are offered for free through the NHS. But in the case that you must pay for your treatment, you will only ever be asked to pay one charge for each complete course - even if you need to visit your dentist more than once to finish it.
In cases where you are referred to another dentist for an additional course of treatment, you should expect a second charge.
What is the NHS Low Income Scheme?
The NHS Low Income Scheme provides income-related help to people who are not exempt from charges but who may be entitled to full or partial help with healthcare costs if they have a low income. Anyone can apply as long as they don't have savings or investments over the capital limit. In England, the capital limit is £16,000 (or £23,250 if you live permanently in a care home).
Help is based on a comparison between your weekly income and assessed requirements at the time the claim is made. Entitlement broadly follows Income Support rules to decide how much, if anything, you must pay towards your healthcare costs, including dental treatment costs.
The NHS Business Services Authority (NHSBSA) website has more information about the NHS Low Income Scheme, including how to apply.
What treatments aren’t included under NHS dental care?
Typically, NHS dental care doesn’t include treatments that would be considered cosmetic, for aesthetic purposes or not clinically necessary such as advanced treatments. Your clinician will discuss your treatment options with you to ensure you receive the dental care you need to feel confident in your smile.
What dental treatment can be provided on the NHS?
It is up to the dentist to decide what dental treatment is clinically necessary.
Treatments that cannot be deemed clinically necessary or that are purely cosmetic, such as sports guards or external bleaching, must be provided privately.
Your clinician will discuss your treatment options with you to ensure you receive the dental care you need to feel confident in your smile.