NHS charges
NHS dental charges are set by the government and are the same at every NHS dentist in England. These prices apply from 1 April 2026.
| Band | What it includes | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Band 1 | Examination, diagnosis and advice. X-rays, a scale and polish if clinically needed, and preventive care such as fluoride varnish or fissure sealants. | £27.90 |
| Band 2 | Everything in Band 1, plus further treatment such as fillings, root canal treatment, removing teeth and treatment for gum disease. | £76.60 |
| Band 3 | Everything in Bands 1 and 2, plus treatment that needs lab work, such as crowns, dentures and bridges. | £332.10 |
| Urgent treatment | Urgent care such as pain relief, a temporary filling or removing a tooth that's causing severe pain. | £27.90 |
How the charges work
- You pay one charge for each course of treatment, even if it takes several visits.
- You pay the charge for the highest band of treatment in that course. A check-up and two fillings is one Band 2 charge of £76.60.
- If you need more treatment in the same or a lower band within two months of finishing a course, you won't pay again.
- Before treatment beyond a check-up, we give you a written treatment plan showing the cost.
Who gets free NHS dental treatment
You don't pay NHS dental charges if, when your treatment starts, you are:
- under 18
- under 19 and in full-time education
- pregnant, or have had a baby in the last 12 months, and have a valid maternity exemption certificate
- staying in an NHS hospital and your treatment is carried out by the hospital dentist
- getting Income Support, income-based Jobseeker's Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance or Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
- getting Universal Credit and you meet the earnings conditions
- named on a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate, or an HC2 certificate
If you're named on an HC3 certificate you may get help with part of the cost.
Not sure? Use the NHS eligibility checker or read about help with health costs before your appointment.
We'll ask you to sign a form saying whether you pay. NHS Business Services Authority checks claims for free treatment, and anyone who claims wrongly can be asked to pay the charge plus a penalty of up to £100. If you're unsure, ask us before you sign.