Patients urged to make the most of free NHS dental care as living costs rise
Patients who are eligible for free NHS dental care are being urged to take advantage of benefits during the cost of living crisis.
As prices rise, more and more people are struggling to cover household bills and some patients have reported having to choose between buying food and heating their homes and going to the dentist.
Dental treatment is not available free of charge for everyone on the NHS, as with other services, such as hospital care and GP services, but it is free for children and adults who receive certain benefits. Fees apply for most people, but they are subsidised and charges are usually significantly lower than private dental fees.
Free NHS dental treatment is available for under 18s, under 19s who are in full-time education, pregnant women and women who have had a baby in the last 12 months and patients who receive income support, pension credit guarantee, income-based jobseeker’s allowance and income-related employment and support allowance (ESA). Those who are eligible for free NHS dental care should present the relevant certificate or documentation and complete the paperwork given to them by the reception team when they visit the dentist.
Currently, people who have an HC2 certificate or an NHS tax credit exemption certificate can also access free NHS dental services.
NHS dentistry covers general and curative treatments, including routine check-ups, some hygiene services, fillings, crowns and dental bridges, dentures, braces for children and treatment for gum disease and decay. Some preventative services are also available. Cosmetic solutions are not available on the NHS.
Patients who are unsure whether they qualify for free NHS dental treatment can check online or contact their local practice for more information.
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