Frequently asked questions
Do I have the right to NHS treatment?
NHS Dentists are under contract to Primary Care Trusts to provide NHS dental care to local residents. The number of patients they can treat will vary between practices. Some practices also offer private treatment. If you need guidance on which practices are accepting NHS patients, then please call the Dental Helpline on 01432 363971.
How do I find a specialist?
If you have special needs, your own dentist should be able to refer you to a specialist service if he or she does not offer these services themselves.
Can I mix private and NHS treatment?
Yes you can. All dentists in general practice are free to provide treatment to patients either on the NHS or privately. This does not apply to dentists employed by health authorities in Dental Access Centres or clinics.
Can I have any sort of treatment on the NHS?
No. There are some treatments, particularly some cosmetic treatments that are not available on the NHS. You are entitled to be offered the treatment necessary to secure and maintain your dental health as an NHS patient.
Who has to pay for treatment?
Everyone has to pay unless they are entitled to free treatment. People exempt from paying NHS charges are:
- Children under 18 years of age
- Young people under the age of 19 still in full time education
- Women who are pregnant or have a child under 12 months of age
- If you are an NHS inpatient and the treatment is carried out by the hospital dentist
- Those on Income-based Job Seekers Allowance
- Those on Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- If you are on Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
- If you are named on, or entitled to an NHS Working Tax Credit exemption certificate
- If you are named on a valid HC2 certificate
- If you are named on a valid HC3 Certificated, you may be eligible for partial help with dental costs
Are there price variations from one practice to another?
NHS charges are the same throughout England, but private practices will vary across the country.
Are there any controls on dentists?
All dentists, both NHS and private are regulated by the General Dental Council (GDC). Please see our page on Comments and Complaints.
How do I complain if I am dissatisfied with the treatment I have received from my NHS Dentist?
If you have a complaint about the treatment you have received, please discuss this first with the dentist who may be able to resolve the issue. If you are still not happy please contact your local Comments and Complaints office.
Can I gain access to my dental records?
You have a legal right of access to your dental records, but are subject to certain rules. The dentist must give you access within 40 days of request for access from the patient. Patients are entitled to copies of records, but will be subject to certain rules and your dentist may charge a reasonable administration fee for copying records.
Can I take my records from my old dentist to my new one?
No. Original dental records are normally kept by the dentist who carried out your treatment. It is a legal requirement for the dentist to keep your records for a certain period of time.