NHS Dentist Near You: How to Find One and What It Costs
Roughly 12 million adults in England do not currently have an NHS dentist. If you can find one, NHS treatment is fixed nationally at three bands. This site walks you through both halves: getting an appointment, and knowing what you will pay when you do.
Sister site nhsdentalcharges.com covers the charge schedule reference and per-treatment NHS prices. This site is the find-a-dentist and what-it-costs-me guide.
If you can't find an NHS dentist
NHS dental access has been in crisis since the 2006 contract reform, with widespread difficulty finding practices accepting new NHS patients. The British Dental Association (BDA) and Healthwatch UK have repeatedly documented the gap; the National Audit Office NHS Dentistry value-for-money report (March 2023) called the system "not functioning well" for patients.
NHS Dental Charges at a Glance
The charges are fixed nationally by NHS England. Every NHS dentist in England charges the same amount. Last set 1 April 2026 via The National Health Service (Dental Charges) (Amendment) Regulations 2026.
What Each Band Includes
One charge covers an entire course of treatment in that band. You pay once, not per procedure.
- +Dental examination and diagnosis
- +X-rays
- +Scale and polish (if clinically needed)
- +Prevention advice and oral health guidance
- +Referral to a specialist if needed
- +Everything included in Band 1
- +Fillings (amalgam or tooth-coloured composite)
- +Root canal treatment
- +Tooth extractions
- +Gum disease treatment (including deep cleaning)
- +Everything included in Bands 1 and 2
- +Crowns
- +Bridges
- +Dentures (full or partial)
- +Veneers (in specific clinical circumstances)
- +Emergency appointments during working hours
- +Out-of-hours emergency treatment
- +Pain relief
- +Temporary fillings
Who Gets Free NHS Dental Treatment?
Several groups qualify for free NHS dental care. Eligibility is checked at the time of treatment.
- Under 18 years old
- Under 19 and in full-time education
- Currently pregnant
- Had a baby in the last 12 months
- Universal Credit (in most circumstances)
- Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Income Support
- Pension Credit (Guarantee Credit)
- Named on an NHS Low Income Scheme HC2 certificate
- Partial help available with an HC3 certificate
NHS vs Private Dental Treatment
Both have genuine advantages. The right choice depends on what you need.
| NHS | Private | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | £27.90 to £332.10 per course | £50 to £1,000+ per procedure |
| Check-up | £27.90 | £50 to £100 |
| Filling | £76.60 (covers all fillings in that course) | £80 to £250 per tooth |
| Crown | £332.10 (covers entire course) | £400 to £1,000 per crown |
| Materials | Functional, clinically appropriate | Wider choice including premium options |
| Waiting times | Can be weeks or months | Often within days |
| Cosmetic work | Not available (clinical need only) | Full range available |
| Implants | Rarely available on NHS | £1,500 to £2,500 per tooth |
If a tooth needs filling, extracting, or crowning for clinical reasons, the NHS will do it. The treatment may use standard materials rather than premium alternatives, but the clinical outcome is the same.
Cosmetic improvements, tooth whitening, ceramic rather than metal fillings, implants instead of dentures - these are generally private only. You also get more flexibility on appointment times.
How to Find an NHS Dentist
Finding an NHS dentist accepting new patients can take time. Here is the most effective approach.
Go to nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-dentist and search by postcode. It shows whether each practice is accepting NHS patients. The information is not always up to date, so always call to confirm.
Many dentists have closed their NHS lists and the NHS website can lag behind. Call each practice and ask specifically: "Are you taking on new NHS patients?" You may need to contact 10 to 15 practices before finding one with availability.
Many dental practices offer both NHS and private treatment. Even if their NHS list is full, they may be able to see you privately for a check-up and add you to their NHS waiting list. This can be quicker than starting from scratch elsewhere.
If you are in pain and cannot find an NHS dentist, call 111. They can direct you to an urgent dental care service. This is for pain and dental emergencies, not routine check-ups.
Common Questions
If I need a check-up and a filling, do I pay both Band 1 and Band 2?
No. If your dentist finds a filling is needed during your check-up, the whole appointment is charged at Band 2 (£76.60). The band covers the highest level of treatment in that course. You pay once.
Are NHS dental charges the same across the UK?
No. The band system and charges described here apply in England only. Scotland provides free NHS dental treatment to all adults registered with an NHS dentist. Wales and Northern Ireland have their own arrangements. If you are outside England, check with your local health service.
Can I get a refund if I paid and later find I was eligible for free treatment?
Yes, in some cases. If you were eligible for free treatment but paid by mistake, you can claim a refund within three months of payment. You will need form FP57, which your dentist should give you when you pay. Contact the Business Services Authority (0300 330 1343) for assistance.
Does the NHS cover tooth whitening?
No. Tooth whitening is considered a cosmetic procedure and is not available on the NHS. Private tooth whitening typically costs £200 to £700 depending on the method. Over-the-counter whitening products are available but are less effective than professional treatment.
NHS dental charges shown are for England and were updated in April 2026. Charges are reviewed periodically by NHS England. Always confirm the current charge with your dental practice before treatment. This page is for information only and does not constitute clinical advice.