NHS Dental Fees to Increase by 5% in England

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The government has confirmed a 5% increase in NHS dental fees in England. The price hike will come into play in April. Ministers have also stated that fees will increase by a further 5% in April 2017.

This increase means that by 2017, a routine check-up will cost more than £20 and complex band 3 treatments such as crowns will cost more than £244.

The government has suggested that the increase will only affect those who can afford to pay higher prices, while those who receive certain benefits will continue to receive free NHS dental care.

Experts from the British Dental Association have questioned the rise, suggesting that such a significant increase could harm the nation’s oral health in he future. Henrik Overgaard-Neilsen from the BDA described the increase as “unprecedented” and said that increased charges would put people off going to the dentist on a regular basis and affect those most in need of care. The BDA has also accused the government of treating dentists like tax collectors.

Health Minister Alistair Burt stated that the increases make an important contribution to dental provision in England. In a written statement, the government pledged to protect the most vulnerable patients and confirmed that treatment will continue to be free of charge for children, pregnant women and those in receipt of benefits.

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