Two ways to pay for dental care
NHS dental care is paid for partly by you and partly by the NHS. Private dental care is paid for by you, at the practice's own prices.
Both are provided by registered dentists. Registered dentists are listed on the General Dental Council register, which you can check online.
How NHS charges work
If you're 18 or over, you usually pay a set charge for NHS treatment. The charge depends on which band your treatment falls in, and not on how many visits you need. Some people don't pay, such as students in some cases, pregnant women, new mothers and people on certain benefits.
Charges change, so check the current amounts on the NHS website rather than relying on any article, including this one.
The NHS offers the treatment you need to keep your mouth healthy. Some treatments are mostly private. The NHS says teeth whitening, implants and veneers are generally private, unless you have a clinical need.
How private care differs
Private care may give you more choice, such as cosmetic treatments or different materials. Prices are set by each practice, so they differ. Appointments may also be easier to get.
Private doesn't automatically mean better or worse. What matters is a clear explanation, a fair written plan, and a dentist you feel at ease with.
Ask for a written plan
Whichever you choose, you can ask for a written treatment plan before work starts. A good plan shows:
- what treatment is recommended, and why
- the other choices you have, including doing nothing
- the cost of each part
- whether X-rays, a crown or other work is extra
- how many visits you're likely to need
Don't feel pressured. You can take time to think, ask questions, or get a second opinion.
Questions to ask any dentist
- Is this treatment available on the NHS? If not, why?
- What will it cost in total, and is anything extra?
- What are the risks, and what are the other choices?
- What happens if it doesn't work or needs repair?
- Who will treat me?
The NHS also suggests you always ask whether a treatment is available on the NHS, and what it will cost, before you go ahead.
Common worries
"Will I get a different standard of care?" Both kinds of dentist work to the same professional standards, set by the General Dental Council. What can differ is the time on offer, the choice of materials, and which treatments are available.
"Can I switch?" Yes. You can move between NHS and private care, though you may need to join a waiting list for NHS care. Ask the practice how it works for them.
"What if I can't afford it?" Tell your dentist. They may be able to suggest other choices, or split the work into stages. Ask what happens if you stop part-way through.
What about Boston Dental HQ?
Our guide prices are published on our pricing page, with the date they were last updated. Each price is marked as a guide price or a "from" price. Your dentist will give you a written plan and price before any work starts.
If you want to book, you can book online. If you'd like to know more first, read about a check-up.