The NHS makes its charges for dental work based on three different treatment bands.
This covers an examination, diagnosis (e.g x-rays), advice on how to prevent future problems, a simple scale if needed, and application of fluoride varnish or preventative fissure sealants.
This covers everything listed in Band 1 above, plus any further treatment such as fillings, root canal work or tooth extractions.
This covers everything listed in Bands 1 and 2 above, plus crowns, dentures or bridges.
Emergency dental treatment such as assessment and advice, emergency pain relief or temporary fillings.
Additional information
You do not have to pay for NHS treatment if, when the treatment starts, you are:
- aged under 18.
- under 19 and receiving full-time education.
- pregnant or a mother who has had a baby in the previous 12 months.
You also do not have to pay if, when the treatment starts, you are:
- included in an award of Income Support.
- included in an award of Income-related Employment and Support Allowance.
- included in an award of Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance.
- included in an award of Pension Credit guarantee credit.
- named on a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate, or you are entitled to an NHS tax credit exemption certificate.
- on Universal credit (in certain circumstances only - please check on Help
with health costs for people getting Universal Credit - NHS (www.nhs.uk))
You will not be exempt from paying because you receive Incapacity Benefit, contribution-based Employment and Support Allowance, contribution-based Jobseeker's Allowance, Disability Living Allowance, Council Tax Benefit, Housing Benefit or Pension Credit savings credit, when paid on their own. Medical conditions do not exempt patients from payment for dental treatment.
You will be asked to show your dentist written proof that you do not have to pay for all or part of your NHS treatment. You will also be asked to sign a form to confirm that you do not have to pay. If your name is on a valid HC3 certificate, you may not have to pay for all your treatment. Checks are made on free and reduced cost treatment claims. If you say you have the right to free treatment when you do not, you may incur a penalty charge.