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NHS How Can I Get NHS Dental Treatment

You do not have to pay for NHS dental treatment if, when the treatment starts, you are:

• aged under 18
• under 19 and receiving full-time education
• pregnant or a mother who has had a baby in the previous 12 months
• staying in an NHS hospital and your treatment is carried out by the hospital dentist
• an NHS Hospital Dental Service outpatient (however, you may have to pay for your dentures or bridges).

You also do not have to pay if, when the treatment starts, or when you are asked to pay:

You are included in an award of:

• Income Support
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
• Pension Credit guarantee credit

Universal Credit (check entitlement after 31 October 2014)

• You are named on a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate, or entitled to one
• You are named on a valid HC2 certificate

What Treatments Should I Expect to Be Provided Under the NHS?

You will be able to have all treatment provided under the NHS that your dentist feels is clinically necessary to keep your mouth, teeth and gums healthy. If your dentist recommends a particular treatment, you should not be asked to pay for it privately.

If you are moving to another area, you may want to wait before starting treatment. If you cannot complete a course of treatment before moving, please speak to your dentist. NHS England Area Teams can help you find another NHS dentist in your new area.

NHS Dental Charges

The amount you pay depends on the treatment you require. You will only be charged once per course of treatment, even if it takes more than one visit:

• Band 1 – : Covers an exam, diagnosis (e.g. X-rays), advice, scale and polish (if needed), and fluoride varnish or fissure sealant. Urgent care also falls under this band.
• Band 2 – : Includes everything in Band 1, plus fillings, root canal work, or extractions.
• Band 3 – : Includes everything in Bands 1 and 2, plus crowns, dentures and bridges.