What can your NHS dentist do for you?
Emergency dental care
Anyone who needs emergency dental care should first call their dental practice.
If you cannot contact your practice or don't have one, patients are advised to use the NHS 111 service by visiting www.111.nhs.uk.
You can also call the Greater Manchester Emergency Dentist on 0333 332 3800
Your first routine visit
The dental practice will take your medical and dental history (if available) and carry out a check up; examining your mouth, teeth and gums.
Following your check up if your dentist recommends dental treatment, you’ll be given a plan. This outlines all the treatments you are having and how much they will cost. If you are not given a treatment plan, ask for one.
Your dentist will recommend a date for your next visit. People with good oral health may need to attend once every 12 to 24 months, but those with more problems may need to visit more often.
Payment
You pay a contribution towards the cost of your care and are charged for treatments depending on which band they fall into. All NHS treatments are covered with a 12-month guarantee.
Free dental treatment
You don’t have to pay for NHS dental treatments if you are:
- under 18, or under 19 and in full-time education
- pregnant or have had a baby in the previous 12 months
- being treated in an NHS hospital and your treatment is carried out by the hospital dentist (but you may have to pay for any dentures or bridges)
- receiving low income benefits, or you’re under 20 and a dependant of someone receiving low income benefits
Treatment Bands
Band 1 (emergency treatment) - £23.80
Emergency treatment covers emergency care such as pain relief and temporary fillings.
Band 1 - £23.80
Band 1 covers an examination, diagnosis, a scale and polish if clinically needed, preventative care (such as fluoride varnish) and advice on how to prevent future problems.
Band 2 - £65.20
Band 2 covers everything listed in Band 1, plus any further treatment such as fillings, root canal work or removal of teeth.
Band 3 - £282.80
Band 3 covers everything listed in Bands 1 and 2, plus crowns, dentures, bridges and other laboratory work.
