What to expect from your dental team, and how much it costs

Who pays for dental treatment?

Most people will have to pay towards the cost of dental treatment, but some patients are exempt.

Dental practices usually offer both NHS and private dental care. You should check whether you are paying for NHS, private treatment, or both before you begin your treatment.

NHS dental practices should always:

• Explain which treatments are available on the NHS.
• Explain which treatments are only available privately.
• Make sure you know how much your NHS treatment and private treatment will cost

How much will I pay for NHS dental treatment?

There are 3 NHS charge bands:

Band 1: £23.80

Covers an examination, diagnosis and advice. If necessary, it also includes X-rays, a scale and polish, and planning for further treatment. This band also includes urgent treatment.

Band 2: £65.20

Covers all treatment included in Band 1, plus additional treatment, such as fillings, root canal treatment and removing teeth (extractions).

Band 3: £282.80

Covers all treatment included in Bands 1 and 2, plus more complex procedures, such as crowns, dentures and bridges.

You may be able to get help with dental costs. Find out more here.

Find out more about what you should expect to pay for treatment.

How can you check whether your dentist is qualified?

A list of all qualified dentists in the UK is available via the register of the General Dental Council (GDC), which is the regulatory body for the profession.  

It’s worth knowing that you don’t register with a dentist in the same way as with a GP. You can choose to go to any dentist who is able to offer an appointment. Once a course of treatment is finished, the dentist is not obliged to see you in future. When you finish a course of treatment, you may want to book your next appointment to avoid problems in future.

What to do if you’re unhappy with your treatment

If you would like to complain about your treatment, please visit our advice on making a complaint . You can also check out advice from the Oral Health Foundation.

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