Every course of NHS treatment comes under one of three “bands” of charges.
Band 1: £26.80
This charge includes an examination or check-up, diagnosis and preventive advice. It also includes any X-rays, a scale and/or polish, and planning for further treatment if these items are needed.
Band 2: £73.50
This charge includes all the necessary treatment covered by the £26.80 Band 1 charge, plus additional treatment required, such as fillings, periodontal treatment, root canal treatment and extractions.
Band 3: £319.10
This charge includes all the necessary treatment that is covered by the £26.80 Band 1 and £73.50 Band 2 charges, plus more complex procedures, such as crowns, onlays, dentures and bridges.
The total amount you pay for NHS treatment is decided by the highest banded item of treatment you receive.
We always take payment before the start of treatment, so this means making a payment of £26.80 before an examination or check-up, and then making a further payment of £46.70 before starting any treatment that comes under Band 2 (so you have paid the full Band 2 charge of £73.50 in total), or making a further payment of £292.30 before starting any treatment which comes under Band 3 (so you have paid the full Band 3 charge of £319.10 in total).
If you are not currently undergoing a course of treatment, emergency appointments carry a £26.80 charge.
According to NHS regulations, we can provide you with free dental treatment if, when the treatment starts, you are:
- aged under 18
- under 19 and in full-time education
- pregnant or have had a baby in the previous 12 months
- you are included in an award of Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance or Pension Credit guarantee credit or Universal credit (in certain circumstances)
- you are named on, or entitled to, a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate or HC2 certificate
See NHS » Understanding NHS dental charges and Dental Choices » Dental Charges 2024 for more information.
If you are on a low income, you can apply for help towards your NHS dental treatment. If you are not sure if you are eligible for help towards the cost of your NHS dental treatment then you can check online.