The dentist should tell you the cost before they start. Free treatment only applies to NHS treatment, so ask if you are not sure which you are getting.
Quick facts
- Band 1
- £27.90
- Band 2
- £76.60
- Band 3
- £332.10
- Urgent
- £27.90
- Free
- Under 18, pregnant, new mothers, some benefits
The three bands
Dental treatments are grouped into 3 bands, and each band has a different cost.
| Band | Cost | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Band 1 | £27.90 | Check-up, diagnosis, advice, scale and polish |
| Band 2 | £76.60 | Band 1, plus fillings, root canal, extractions |
| Band 3 | £332.10 | Bands 1 and 2, plus crowns, dentures, bridges |
| Urgent | £27.90 | Urgent treatment |
If you need a mix of treatments from different bands, you’ll pay for the cost of the highest band of treatment you’re having.
If you need more treatment soon after
If you have dental treatment but need further treatment within 2 months, you do not have to pay extra if the further treatment is included in the same band, or a lower band.
Who gets free NHS dental treatment
You can get free NHS dental appointments and treatment if:
- you're aged under 18, or under 19 and in full-time education
- you're pregnant or have had a baby in the last 12 months
- you've had a stillbirth in the past 12 months
- you're getting treatment in an NHS hospital from a hospital dentist (but you may still need to pay for dentures or bridges)
You can also get it free if you or your partner get income-related ESA, Pension Credit Guarantee Credit, or Universal Credit with income below a certain amount. Others on a low income can apply to the NHS Low Income Scheme.
Proof you may need
Depending on the reason, you’ll need to give your dentist proof that you can get free NHS dental treatment. Examples include a valid HC2 certificate, a birth certificate or a maternity exemption certificate.
Common questions
How much is an NHS dental check-up?
Band 1, £27.90.
How much does a filling cost on the NHS?
Fillings are Band 2, £76.60.
Who gets free NHS dental treatment?
Under 18s, under 19s in full-time education, pregnant women and women who had a baby in the last 12 months, and people on certain benefits.
Do I pay twice if I need more treatment?
Not if you need further treatment within 2 months in the same band or a lower band.