How NHS dentistry in England is organised, why new NHS places are scarce in many areas, and how private care differs, from our Finchley Road practice.
We are often asked how NHS and private dentistry differ. Here is a short, neutral overview for patients in Camden and the surrounding area.
NHS dental care is provided by practices that hold an NHS contract. Treatment is grouped into charge bands, and patients pay a set charge for each course of treatment unless they are exempt. Exemptions include children under 18, people who are pregnant or have had a baby in the past 12 months, and people receiving certain benefits. Current charges and exemptions are published on the NHS website.
Each contract funds a set amount of activity per year. When a practice has used its allocation, it may not be able to take on new NHS patients. To check availability in your area, use the NHS website’s Find a dentist service. For urgent help, call NHS 111.
With private care, fees are set by the practice and paid directly, or through a membership plan or insurance. Private practices are regulated in the same way: dentists must be registered with the General Dental Council, and practices in England are regulated by the Care Quality Commission.
Our fees are on the private treatment fees page and our membership plans cover routine care for a monthly fee. If you are new, our new patients page explains what to expect at your first visit.
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.
