NHS or private. What's the difference?

Most general family dentists offer both NHS and private treatment. Some treatments are only available privately. These can include white fillings on back teeth, white crowns on molar teeth, cosmetic treatment and implants. You can still choose to have these treatments, even if you are an NHS patient, just discuss it with your dentist. Another difference between NHS and private care is in the materials used, like filling materials and types of denture. Again you can choose to have different materials.

Many dental practices either treat all of their patients privately or prioritise care to children and/or patients who are exempt from NHS charges. Some practices have only been given a very small NHS contract and so can only provide a limited number of NHS appointments. Private treatment can be provided on a pay as you go basis where patients pay for the treatment they receive or as part of a practice plan where patients pay a monthly fee for care.