NHS Dentist Costs
Understanding NHS dental charges is essential for managing your healthcare budget in 2026. Unlike medical appointments with a GP, most adults in England must pay a contribution towards their dental care. These costs are subsidized by the government but can still represent a significant household expense. This comprehensive guide details the current pricing structure, known as "Bands," which simplifies the complex array of potential dental treatments into three flat-fee categories.
Whether you need a routine check-up, an urgent filling, or complex bridgework, knowing the costs upfront helps you plan. We also explore the critical differences between NHS and private care, how to find an NHS dentist in a saturated market, and the exemptions available for children, pregnant women, and those on low incomes.
🧮 NHS Dental Treatment Cost Calculator
Select the treatments you require to see your estimated NHS band and total cost.
NHS Dental Charges 2026: The Three Bands
The NHS dental charging system in England is designed to be straightforward. Rather than pricing every individual item (like a screw or a minute of chair time), treatments are grouped into three bands. You pay one single charge for the entire course of treatment, dependent on the highest band your treatment falls into.
Band 1: £26.80
Routine Care & Diagnosis
This is the foundation of dental care. The £26.80 fee applies if you visit the dentist for a check-up. It covers:
- Clinical Examination: The dentist checks your teeth, gums, and mouth health.
- Diagnosis: Identifying any issues such as decay or gum disease.
- X-rays: Taking radiographs if necessary to see between teeth or under fillings.
- Advice: Guidance on brushing, flossing, diet, and smoking cessation.
- Scale and Polish: *Only if clinically necessary* to diagnose gum disease or prevent it. Purely cosmetic cleaning is not covered.
- Fluoride Varnish: Application if appropriate for preventative care.
Example: If you go for a check-up and the dentist takes X-rays and performs a scale and polish, you pay £26.80 total.
Band 2: £73.50
Restorative Treatment
Band 2 covers treatments that involve doing something to the teeth beyond examining them. If you need treatment in this band, the £73.50 fee includes everything in Band 1 as well.
- Fillings: Repairing cavities. On the NHS, amalgam (silver) is standard for back teeth. Composite (white) fillings are usually only provided for front teeth where visible, unless there is a specific clinical allergy or reason against amalgam.
- Root Canal Treatment: Removing infection from the center of a tooth to save it from extraction.
- Extractions: Removal of teeth that cannot be saved.
- Relining Dentures: Adjusting the fit of existing dentures.
Example: If you need a check-up, two X-rays, and three fillings, the total cost for the whole course is just £73.50. You do not pay £26.80 + £73.50; you just pay the Band 2 fee.
Band 3: £319.10
Complex Restorative & Prosthodontic Work
This is the maximum charge for a single course of NHS treatment. It covers laboratory work for replacing missing teeth or protecting heavily damaged teeth.
- Crowns: Caps placed over broken or decayed teeth to restore shape and strength.
- Bridges: A fixed replacement for a missing tooth, anchored to adjacent teeth.
- Dentures: Full or partial removable false teeth.
- Lab Work: Any other custom-made appliances like mouthguards for grinding (bruxism).
Example: If you require a check-up, a filling, and a crown, you will pay the Band 3 charge of £319.10. This single fee covers all appointments and procedures in that treatment plan.
Who Gets Free NHS Dental Treatment?
Not everyone has to pay. The NHS has a robust exemption system to protect vulnerable groups and those on low incomes. You do not have to pay for NHS dental services if, when the treatment starts, you are:
- Age: Under 18, or under 19 and in full-time education.
- Pregnancy/Maternity: Pregnant or have had a baby in the previous 12 months. You must have a valid Maternity Exemption Certificate (MatEx).
- Hospital Treatment: Being treated in an NHS hospital and your treatment is carried out by the hospital dentist (dentist outpatient appointments may still charge).
- Benefits: Receiving Income Support, Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance, Income-related Employment and Support Allowance, or Pension Credit Guarantee Credit.
- Universal Credit: If you meet the specific income thresholds (check your latest award notice).
NHS Low Income Scheme (HC1 Form)
If you don't receive one of the qualifying benefits but have a low income, you may still get help. You can apply to the NHS Low Income Scheme by filling out an HC1 form.
HC2 Certificate: Entitles you to full help with health costs (free dental).
HC3 Certificate: Entitles you to partial help. You will pay a reduced amount, which will be stated on your certificate.
NHS vs Private Dentistry: The Comparison
With NHS appointments becoming harder to secure in many parts of the UK, many patients are considering private options. Here is a realistic comparison of the two sectors in 2026.
| Feature | NHS Dentistry | Private Dentistry |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Subsidized, fixed bands (Max £319.10). | Market rates. A check-up can range from £40-£90; crowns can cost £500-£1000+. |
| Materials | Functional materials. Amalgam (silver) for back teeth is standard. | Aesthetic materials. White composites, ceramics, and advanced polymers are standard. |
| Appointment Availability | High demand, long waiting lists in many areas. | Usually available within days or same-day for emergencies. |
| Treatment Time | appointments are often shorter (15-20 mins for check-up). | Longer appointments (30+ mins), allowing for more detailed discussion. |
| Cosmetic Work | Not available (no whitening, veneers, or cosmetic bonding). | Full range of cosmetic treatments available. |
Private Dental Insurance
To mitigate the higher costs of private care, many Britons opt for dental insurance or capitation plans (like Denplan).
Cost: typically £15 - £35 per month.
Coverage: Most plans cover two check-ups and two hygiene appointments a year, plus a discount (often 10-20%) on restorative work, or full coverage for restorative work depending on the tier.
Waiting Periods: Be aware that most policies have a 3-6 month waiting period before you can claim for major treatments.
Urgent and Emergency Dental Care
Dental pain can be debilitating. If you require urgent care, the rules differ slightly.
NHS Emergency Charge: £26.80
If you need to see a dentist urgently (pain relief, temporary filling, stopping bleeding), you will pay the Band 1 charge of £26.80. If you are subsequently asked to come back for further treatment (e.g., a permanent filling), you will have to pay the relevant Band 2 charge for that new course of treatment.
Out of Hours: Call NHS 111 if you have severe pain, heavy bleeding, or swelling that is affecting your breathing. They can direct you to an emergency dental hub.
How to Find an NHS Dentist
Finding a practice taking on new NHS patients in 2026 remains a challenge. NHS England does not register patients in the same way GP surgeries do; you are not "registered" for life. You are only a patient while undergoing a course of treatment.
- Use the NHS Website: The "Find a Dentist" tool is the official database, though often out of date.
- Call Directly: Practices often have waiting lists not published online.
- Check Catchment Areas: Unlike GPs, dentists don't have strict catchment areas. You can visit a dentist near your work or in a neighboring town if they have space.
- Waiting Lists: Join the waiting list of several practices simultaneously.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I visit the dentist?
The old "every 6 months" rule is no longer the standard for everyone. NICE guidelines suggest intervals based on risk. If you have great oral health, your NHS dentist may suggest a check-up every 12 or even 24 months. Those with higher needs may need to go every 3 months.
Can I be charged for missed appointments?
NHS dentists cannot charge you for missed appointments. However, if you miss appointments, they have the right to refuse to see you again or de-register you from their patient list.
Is teeth whitening available on the NHS?
No, teeth whitening is considered cosmetic and is not available on the NHS. Private whitening performed by a dentist is the only safe and legal professional option.