Dental treatment is one of the few NHS services where a patient contribution is required. However, you may be entitled to free NHS dental care if you meet certain criteria, such as:
- Being under 18
- Pregnant or having had a baby in the last 12 months
- Receiving specific benefits or holding a valid exemption certificate
The charge you pay depends on the treatment you need to keep your mouths, gum and teeth healthy. You will only be asked to pay one charge for each complete course of treatment even if the treatment is done over multple visits – either Band 1, Band 2 and Band 3. If you’re unsure about your eligibility, our friendly reception team will be happy to help.
NHS Dental Charge Bands (England)
- Band 1 – £27.40
Includes an examination, diagnosis (including X-rays), oral health advice, fluoride varnish, or fissure sealant. - Band 2 – £75.30
Includes all Band 1 treatments, plus fillings, root canal treatment, minor gum treatments, and extractions. - Band 3 – £326.70
Includes all Band 1 and 2 treatments, plus crowns, dentures, bridges, and laboratory work. - Emergency Treatment – £27.40
Covers urgent dental care such as pain relief, temporary fillings, or emergency extractions.
Not available on the NHS
The NHS will only provide for treatment essential to secure and maintain your oral health. It does not cover cosmetic treatments such as teeth whitening.
Where treatment is clinically necessary, the dentist will offer you a treatment option that is clinically appropriate. If you choose to have alternative treatment options, then you will have to pay privately for these.
Exemptions
You will receive free services from your NHS dentist if you’re in receipt of certain benefits or have an exemption card or certificate. For further details, please ask our friendly receptionists.
For full details, visit the NHS dental charges and exemptions page.