NHS dental care in England is charged in three bands. Band 1 covers an examination, X-rays and a scale and polish if needed. Band 2 adds fillings, root canal treatment and extractions. Band 3 adds crowns, dentures and bridges. You pay one charge per course of treatment, and some people, including children under 18, pay nothing.

Private care is paid for by you, at the practice’s own prices. It can mean longer appointments, a wider choice of materials, and treatments the NHS does not usually provide, such as implants, clear aligners or whitening.

Neither is the “right” answer for everyone. A good practice tells you plainly which options are available on the NHS and which are private, and gives you a written cost before anything starts.

Information on this website is general and is not a substitute for advice from a dental professional. Please book an appointment for advice about your own teeth.