Dec 22, 2011
— read in fullRegistering with a dentist
When you move to a new area, you will need to be registered with a dentist to keep your smile healthy. Read on to find out how to get started.
Registering with an NHS dentist
The first step is to find your nearest dentist in England or nearest dentist in Wales.
Anyone can apply to be taken on by an NHS dentist and where you register is not generally affected by where you live. You may also register with a private dentist however, your treatment will be more expensive than on the NHS. Most courses of treatment on the NHS cost £16.20 or £44.60 or are free in some circumstances, for instance if you are under 18 or on certain benefits.
What next?
Once you’ve found a dentist surgery near to your new home, give them a call or drop in to find out if they have any NHS places available.
Success!
If places are available you will complete a registration form, which the receptionist will give you. You then need to ensure you have regular check ups with your dentist. It is recommended that under 18s visit a dentist every 3 to 12 months and adults visit every 3 to 24 months, but the rules may vary depending on your surgery. Be warned- if you do not attend regular check ups, you may be taken off the NHS list and have to find another NHS dentist.
If a dentists’ surgery has no NHS places available, you can try another surgery or go private. Private dental treatment is generally more expensive though.
What can NHS dentists help me with?
- an examination and assessment
- x-rays
- non-surgical treatment like scaling, polishing, periodontal (gum) treatments, marginal fillings and oral hygiene instruction
- surgical treatments like wisdom and other tooth removal
- fillings and root canal fillings
- other treatments like bridges, veneers, crowns, inlays, dentures and disease management
- referral to a dental hospital for specialist treatment
How do I make an appointment?
Once you have successfully registered with a dentist, call the reception and ask to make an appointment.
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