Who is entitled to free NHS dental treatment?
You do not have to pay for NHS dental treatment if, when your treatment starts, you are:
- under 18
- under 19 and in full-time education
- pregnant or you’ve had a baby in the 12 months before treatment starts
- staying in an NHS hospital and the hospital dentist carries out your treatment
You can also get free NHS dental treatment if, when the treatment starts or when you’re asked to pay:
- you’re included in an award of Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance or Pension Credit guarantee credit
- you’re named on, or entitled to, a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate
- you’re named on a valid HC2 certificate
- If you’re named on a valid HC3 certificate, you may not have to pay for all your NHS dental treatment. HC2 and HC3 certificates are issued under the NHS Low Income Scheme – see below
You will not be exempt from paying for NHS dental treatment because you receive one of the benefits below when paid on their own*:
- Incapacity Benefit
- Contribution-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Contribution-based Employment and Support Allowance
- Disability Living Allowance
- Council Tax Benefit
- Housing Benefit
- Pension Credit savings credit
*if unsure please contact the Department of Work and Pensions
Proof of your entitlement
You’ll be asked to show your dentist written proof that you’re entitled to help with dental treatment costs. This will vary depending on your circumstances.
What’s included under NHS dental care?
NHS dental care provides the treatment you need to help maintain your oral health. This includes keeping your teeth and gums healthy and free from pain.
Treatment could include:
- Dental examinations
- X-rays
- Fillings
- Root fillings
- Tooth extraction
- Crowns
- Bridges
- Dentures
NHS orthodontics (teeth straightening) is most commonly offered to children under 18, who have qualified for the treatment according to a rating system called the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN).
What’s not included under NHS dental care?
NHS dental services don’t typically include cosmetic treatments or advanced treatments. Your dentist will discuss your options with you and ensure that your expectations are met, which may include private treatment alternatives.
Alternatives to NHS treatment
In addition to NHS care, we offer a range of services including dental plans which cover your ongoing dental maintenance and preventation. Contact your local practice for details.
NHS FEES
Our NHS dental treatment is covered in the following price categories:
Band 1: £26.80. Covers an examination, diagnosis and advice. If necessary, it also includes X-rays, a scale and polish, and planning for further treatment.
Band 2: £73.50. Covers all treatment included in Band 1, plus additional treatment, such as fillings, root canal treatment and removing teeth (extractions).
Band 3: £319.10. Covers all treatment included in Bands 1 and 2, plus more complex procedures, such as crowns, dentures and bridges.
Alpha Dental Care is part of Riverdale Healthcare and is a trading name of Riverdale Tradeco Limited. Registered in England & Wales No. 11506562 Registered Office: The Warehouse, Anchor Quay, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 8GZ
Riverdale TradeCo Ltd trading as Alpha Dental Care is a credit broker, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in England & Wales 11506562
Where required by law, loans will be regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Consumer Credit Act. Credit is provided by Wesleyan Bank Limited who is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Wesleyan Bank Ltd (Registered in England and Wales No 2839202) Registered Office: PO Box 3420, Colmore Circus, Birmingham B4 6AE. Tel: 0800 358 1122. www.wesleyanbank.co.uk Terms and conditions apply.