Many people in South Hampstead, Swiss Cottage and the wider NW3 area have dental cover through an employer or a personal policy, yet never check what it actually includes. A few minutes with your policy documents before you book can save money and avoid surprises.

Step 1: find out what type of cover you have

Dental cover in the UK usually falls into one of three groups:

• Insurance policies, which reimburse some or all of the cost of treatment up to an annual limit.
• Cash plans, which pay back a fixed amount or percentage per claim.
• Practice membership plans, where you pay a monthly fee for routine care at one practice. You can read about ours on the membership plans page.

Step 2: check the details that matter

• Your annual limit and whether it resets on a calendar or policy year.
• Whether check-ups, hygiene visits and X-rays are included.
• How much is paid towards fillings, root canal treatment, crowns or implants.
• Waiting periods for new policies and exclusions for existing problems.
• Whether you need pre-authorisation before larger treatment.

Step 3: plan treatment around your limits

If you need several treatments, it can sometimes make sense to spread them across two policy years. We can give you a written treatment plan with itemised costs, which most insurers ask for when you claim. Our current prices are listed on the private treatment fees page, and information for Bupa members is on our Bupa dentist page.

How claims usually work

With most policies you pay the practice on the day and then claim the money back from your insurer using your receipt and treatment details. Each provider has its own process, so check with them directly. We are happy to provide the paperwork you need.

Not sure where to start?

Send us your policy name when you contact us and we will explain what information your insurer is likely to need. Final decisions on what is covered are always made by your insurer.

Contact Dental Wellness Finchley Road

Dental Wellness Finchley Road, 106 Finchley Rd, South Hampstead, London NW3 5JJ.

Call 020 3813 3848, message us on WhatsApp (07522 141064), email smile@dentalwellnessfinchleyroad.co.uk or book online.