NHS Fees

NHS dental charges from April 2024

The charge you pay depends on the treatment you need to keep your mouth, gums and teeth healthy. You will only ever be asked to pay one charge for each complete course of treatment, even if you need to visit your dentist more than once to finish it – either Band 1, Band 2 or Band 3. If you have to be referred to another dentist, for another, separate course of treatment, you can expect a second charge. Some minor treatment, including having stitches removed or repair to dentures (if they can be mended), are free.

If you are not exempt from charges, you should pay one of the following charges for each course of treatment you receive:

Band 1 course of treatment – £26.80

This covers an examination, diagnosis (eg X-rays), advice on how to prevent future problems, a scale and polish if needed, and application of fluoride varnish or fissure sealant. If you require urgent care, even if your urgent treatment needs more than one appointment to complete, you will only need to pay one Band 1 charge.

Band 2 course of treatment – £73.50

This covers everything listed in Band 1 above, plus any further treatment such as fillings, root canal work or if your dentist needs to take out one or more of your teeth.

Band 3 course of treatment – £319.10

This covers everything listed in Bands 2 and 2 above, plus crowns, dentures and bridges.
Free NHS dental treatments or help with health costs

Please note that an emergency appointment may be charged at an extra band 1: £26.80

You may be eligible for help with all or part of the costs of your NHS dental treatment. To see if this applies to you, see the leaflet NHS dental services in England, which is available from any NHS dental practice.
For advice on how to get help with health costs call 0845 850 1166 or see Help with health costs (HC 11), which is available from Jobcentre Plus offices, and NHS dentists, or at www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk.

For further information on NHS dental services and dental charges, see the leaflet NHS dental services in England or the dental services section of the NHS Choices website (www.nhs.uk), or ask your primary care trust for help.