NHS dental costs have increased in England
NHS dental costs have increased in England. Higher charges for band 1, band 2 and band 3 treatments came into force on April 24th.
The higher fees will impact anyone who pays for NHS dental care. Those who were eligible for free dental treatment before the price hike will continue to be able to access free treatment. Groups that don’t have to pay for NHS services include children, pregnant women and women who have given birth within the last 12 months and people who receive certain benefits.
From April 24th, the cost of band 1 treatments, the most basic services, which include routine check-ups, will be £25.80. Band 2 treatments, such as fillings and root canal therapy, will be priced at £70.70 and band 3 treatments, including crowns and dentures, will cost £306.80. The new charges represent an 8.5% increase. This is the first time a routine dental check has cost patients more than £25.
Dental fees are significantly lower in other parts of the UK. In Wales, for example, the charges are £14.70, £47 and £203 for band 1, 2 and 3 treatments respectively. In Northern Ireland and Scotland, patients who are not eligible for free treatment pay 80% of the cost of treatment up to a maximum of £384.
Despite the increases in NHS dental charges, NHS care remains significantly less expensive than private dental services. The average cost of a check-up with a private dentist in England is around £65.
The British Dental Association has criticised the government for the price rise, claiming that people can’t afford to pay more to see a dentist during a cost of living crisis and urging ministers to invest more money in NHS dental services.
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