National Health Service dentistry

On April 1 2006, the most significant reforms to NHS dentistry (since its inception in 1948) were introduced.

These reforms are benefiting patients by improving access to NHS dental services and by replacing the old, complicated charging system with three simple, standard price bands.

Simpler charging

There are now three standard charges for all NHS dental treatments. This makes it easier to know how much you may need to pay and also helps to ensure that you are being charged for NHS care (rather than private care). The maximum charge for a complex course of treatment is £198*. Most courses of treatment cost £16.50* or £45.60*.

* These charges apply from  April 1 2009.

You still receive free NHS dental treatment if you meet the exemption criteria.

Band 1 Course of Treatment - £16.50

This covers an examination, diagnois, x-rays, advice on how to prevent future problems and a scale and polish if required.

Emergency treatment may also cost £16.50

Band 2 Course of Treatment - £45.60

This covers Band 1 items plus fillings, extractions, and root fillings.

Band 3 Course of Treatment-  £198.00

This covers everything listed in bands one and two above , plus crown and denture work.

Children

Children's examinations are free upto the age of 18, if your child is still in full time education dental treatment is free until they are 19.