How much will I pay for NHS dental treatment? (2024)

FAQs

What is the maximum charge for NHS dental treatment? ›

You have to pay 80% of the cost of your NHS dental treatment up to a maximum of £384.00 for each course of treatment you have unless you're entitled to free treatment.

Band 2: £73.50

Covers all treatment included in Band 1, plus additional treatment, such as fillings, root canal treatment and removing teeth (extractions).

The NHS Low Income Scheme (LIS) may provide help with some of the cost of your dental care if you have a low income but do not qualify for free dental care.

The NHS will provide any clinically necessary treatment needed to keep your mouth, teeth and gums healthy and free of pain. Decisions about which treatment is appropriate will be based on a clinical assessment and clinical judgement.

You will not be charged for individual items within an NHS course of treatment.

The typical cost for porcelain crowns in the UK ranges from £670 to £850, depending on your selection procedure. NHS dental crowns fall within the Band 3 treatment charge of around £319.10. Regardless of the number of crowns you need, they are included in the exact course of treatment.

NHS dental treatment doesn't become free when you reach a certain age, but you may be eligible for free dental treatment if you or your partner receive certain benefits. Let the receptionist know if you receive any of the following benefits when you make an appointment.

There are different types of partial dentures, but they commonly include a metal and/or plastic plate with plastic or porcelain false teeth. Both types may have metal clips (clasps), which fit around the natural teeth.

Call 1-888-Ask-HRSA to find out about federally-funded community health centers across the country that provide free or reduced-cost health services, including dental care. Community clinics can be a great way to get dental care affordably.

What happens if you can't afford a dentist in the UK? ›

The National Health Service (NHS) provides dental care to eligible people. It is at a subsidized cost or for free. You can get free NHS dental treatment if you qualify based on your age, income, or certain benefits. Then, you can get the care you need without worrying about the cost.

If you want to have some or all of your teeth out then you should see a dentist. It's possible that you could be referred to a clinic or dental hospital to have IV sedation or a GA to have the teeth out. If the dentist is not convinced that all of your teeth need to come out, then they may be able to give you options.

The NHS will provide any clinically necessary treatment needed to keep your mouth, teeth and gums healthy and free of pain. You will only ever be asked to pay one charge for each complete course of treatment even if you need to visit your dentist more than once to finish it.

Unless you're entitled to free NHS dental treatment, you'll have to pay for root canal treatment. Read about NHS dental charges and how to get help with dental costs. If the work is particularly complex, your dentist may refer you to a specialist in root canal treatment, known as an endodontist.

Standard NHS Fees

NHS dental charges are divided into three bands, with each band representing a different level of treatment. Fillings fall under Band 2, which means there's a standard fee for all Band 2 treatments, regardless of the number of fillings you need.

Out-of-pocket fees for root canals average £150-500 and £200-600 for the crown. Some clinics offer payment plans or discounted services for uninsured patients.

As private dentists don't have their fees set by the government they are able to use the best dental laboratories in the UK. Some dental practices can be tempted to use overseas and cheaper dental laboratories, which can lead to a reduction in quality assurance.

The clinically recommended maximum intervals are up to 24 months for adults and up to 12 months for children. Within these guidelines, your dentist will recommend a recall interval for you based on his or her assessment of your current dental health.