Access to NHS dental care continues to be one of the main issues we hear about from the public.
The Government set out a new dental care recovery plan in February 2024, which has the potential to improve access to NHS dental appointments in the short term. But in the long term, we believe more fundamental reforms are needed.
To find a dental practice near you
Use the NHS website https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-dentist
What to do if you have a dental emergency?
If you need immediate care for your teeth, you should:
- Ask your regular dentist whether they can offer an emergency appointment.
- Phone The Lancashire and South Cumbria Dental Helpline who can locate an urgent dental service.
- If you need to access a dentist in an emergency or out of normal hours, use NHS111 by visiting 111.nhs.uk or call 111.
- Visit A&E if you experience severe pain, heavy bleeding, or face, mouth or teeth injuries.
The Lancashire and South Cumbria Dental Helpline
The Lancashire and South Cumbria dental helpline can provide advice, support and an appointment where required. It is charged at your local rate.
Call 0300 1234010 between 8am and 9pm Monday to Friday, 10am to 5pm weekends and bank holidays for support.
NHS Dental Charges
NHS dental services are charged in three bands:
Band 1: £25.80 – covers an examination, diagnosis and advice. If necessary, it also includes X-rays, a scale and polish (if clinically needed), and planning for further treatment.
Band 2: £70.70 – covers all treatment included in Band 1, plus additional treatment, such as fillings, root canal treatment and removing teeth (extractions).
Band 3: £306.80 – covers all treatment included in Bands 1 and 2, plus more complex procedures, such as crowns, dentures and bridges.
Free NHS dental services are only available to those aged under 18 (or under 19 if in full-time education), pregnant women or women who have had a baby in the last 12 months, people being treated in an NHS hospital by a hospital dentist and those on low-income benefits. You can find more information here: https://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/help-nhs-dental-costs
What to do if you’re unhappy with your treatment
If you would like to complain about your care or treatment, please visit our advice on making a complaint. You can also check out advice from the Oral Health Foundation.
