Affordable Dentistry: What Are Your Options If You Can’t Afford Dental Treatment?

High dental costs can be a concern for many people, especially when unexpected treatment is needed. Fortunately, there are several ways to access affordable care, whether through the NHS, private options with flexible pricing, or Riverdale Healthcare’s Dental Essentials scheme. Here’s what you need to know to find a solution that works for you.

NHS Dental Care

If you are looking for basic, affordable dental care, NHS dental services are an excellent solution where available. NHS dentists provide necessary treatments at set costs, making them one of the most affordable options available for dental care.

As of April 2025, NHS dental treatments are divided into the following bands:

Band 1 (£27.40):

Covers an examination, diagnosis (including X-rays), advice on preventing future problems, and a scale and polish if clinically necessary.

Band 2 (£75.30):

Includes all treatments in Band 1, plus additional treatments such as fillings, root canal work, or extractions.

Band 3 (£326.70):

Covers all treatments in Bands 1 and 2, plus more complex procedures like crowns, dentures, and bridges.

It’s important to note that while NHS dental care is excellent for essential treatments, it primarily focuses on necessary procedures and does not cover cosmetic treatments such as teeth whitening or veneers. Due to high demand for services, securing appointments can also be challenging, and you may find yourself searching for any dentists taking on NHS patients in your area. NHS dental treatment prices are subject to change, so it’s always worth checking the NHS website for the most up-to-date information.

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Who Qualifies for Free NHS Dental Care?

Children under 18, or under 19 in full-time education
Pregnant women or those who have had a baby in the last 12 months
Individuals receiving certain benefits (e.g. Universal Credit, Income Support)

Private Dental Care & Finance Options

Private dental care is often seen as the most expensive option, but with the right payment plan, it doesn’t have to be out of reach. Private practices offer a wider range of treatments than the NHS, including cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening, veneers, and dental implants, which are only available on the NHS if medically necessary. They also provide shorter wait times and greater flexibility for payment options, and additional benefits such as seeing the same dentist consistently.

While private treatment typically costs more than NHS care, many practices offer finance plans to help spread the cost, making essential procedures more manageable. Be aware that private dental fees have increased in recent years, with root canal treatment costing up to £775 in some regions. Still, private care can be a viable alternative when NHS availability is limited or when cosmetic options are desired.

Dental Essentials

Dental Essentials, offered by a range of our practices, is tailored for patients seeking a balanced approach between the affordability of NHS care and the flexibility and availability of private services. This plan provides affordable access to essential treatments without the long waiting times often associated with NHS dentists.

With Dental Essentials, patients can choose from three options:

Option 1 (£35*): Includes an examination and two small X-rays.
Option 2 (£95*): Includes an examination, two small X-rays, and either one filling or one extraction.
Option 3 (£400*): Includes an examination, two small X-rays, two fillings or one extraction, and one crown or denture.

A £4* administration fee is applied for new patients.

These options provide an independent alternative to NHS care, ensuring patients receive a comparable level of treatment using high-quality materials and equipment. Emergency appointments are also available, and services like scale and polish help support preventive care. Dental Essentials even offers discounts on more complex procedures, including cosmetic treatments, making it an attractive choice for individuals seeking reliable dental care while avoiding higher private costs.

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Get the Right Care for You

Getting the right care for your teeth is our number one priority. Whether you choose NHS services, private care, or our Dental Essentials scheme, we’re here to ensure you receive the best possible treatment tailored to your needs with a payment plan that works for you.

Contact your nearest Riverdale dentist today to schedule your appointment and take the first step towards a healthier, happier smile!

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