Guide to NHS Dental Care
This section aims to answer all the questions you may have about NHS Grampian dental services.
Am I entitled to free NHS dental care?
All UK citizens and nationals of other qualifying countries are entitled to use NHS dental services. However, unlike GP services, there is usually a charge made for NHS dental services. The charge depends on the type of treatment provided.
You will be exempt from dental charges if, when your treatment begins, you are:
- Under 18 years of age
- 18 years of age and in full time education
- Pregnant or have had a baby in the 12 months before the treatment starts
- An NHS inpatient and the treatment is carried out by a hospital dentist
- An NHS Hospital Dental Service out-patient (although there may be a charge for dentures and bridges)
- Entitled to or named on, a valid NHS tax credit
- Receiving, or your partner is receiving:
- Income support
- Income-based Jobseekers allowance
- Pension Credit (guaranteed credit)
- Named on a valid HC2 certificate
If you hold a HC3 certificate, you may receive some help towards the cost of your dental treatment.
How is NHS dental care provided?
NHS dental care is provided in three main ways. These are:
Salaried NHS Dentists: Salaried dentists are employed by the NHS and only undertake NHS work.
Community NHS Dentists: Community dentists care for patients who have particular dental, medical or other special care requirements that make it difficult or inappropriate for treatment to be provided in a general practice setting.
General Dental Practitioners: These are independent contractors. Many often provide a mix of both NHS and private dental treatment. However, some only accept private patients.
How can I find a dentist who offers NHS treatment?
Unfortunately, at the present time, there is a national shortage of NHS Salaried Dentists and General Dental Practitioners willing to provide NHS dental treatment. This means that it can be difficult to register with a dentist for NHS dental treatment. To be allocated a slot on the NHS Grampian dental waiting list, please call the Grampian Dental Advice Line (DIAL) on 0845 45 65 990 (Monday to Friday 8.15am to 5.45pm).
What should I do if I am in pain but am not registered with a dentist?
If you are experiencing pain but you are not registered with a dentist, please call the Grampian Dental Advice Line (DIAL) on 0845 45 65 990. The line is open from Monday to Friday 8.15am to 5.45pm. If you would like to call out of hours or on weekends then you can call NHS24 on 08454 24 24 24.