NHS Or Private Dentist: Which One Is Right for You?
If you are interested in side-stepping NHS waitlists and accessing treatments not available through NHS dentists, then contact us to discuss your treatment options.
When deciding between an NHS and private dentist for your desired dental work, there are advantages and disadvantages to take into consideration, with budgets and the specific dental work needed often being the deciding factor. So, which is the right choice for you? An NHS or private dentist?
Cost difference
There is no doubt that NHS dentists are significantly cheaper than private dentists. If you are a UK resident, you’re entitled to receive government-subsidised dental treatments from an NHS dentist. They offer a range of services that fall into the following bands:
- Band 1: Covers routine check-ups, X-rays and more. The price for this band is £27.40.
- Band 2: Covers procedures such as root canals, fillings, tooth extraction and more. The price for this band is £75.30.
- Band 3: Covers dentures, crowns and more. The price for this band is £326.70.
These charges are fixed, regardless of the treatment you need. On the other hand, the same procedure costs more in a private dental clinic, but will come with great additional benefits.
Waiting times and appointment availability
If you wish to be seen quickly, then a private practice is the best option. Private dental offices generally have more flexible appointment times, alongside shorter waiting lists. On the other hand, you may not be able to see an NHS dentist for a few months - in fact, it is estimated that 50% of the UK population have waited over a year for a dental appointment with the NHS.
What about emergency visits? This is something both NHS and private dentists offer.
Treatment options
NHS treatments are only provided if they are deemed medically necessary. Therefore, cosmetic procedures such as teeth whitening are not available. Teeth straightening is also no longer available for any patients over the age of 18.
A private clinic in comparison will be able to carry out any treatment you need. At Yorkshire Dental Suite, you can opt for procedures not available on the NHS, including our signature Nanofill Composite Bonding®.
In addition to this, private clinics have state-of-the-art equipment and tools that NHS clinics often do not have access to, allowing you to achieve the smile you have always wanted.
Length of appointment
NHS dentists have a quick patient turnover, which means your appointment can feel rushed. A private dentist typically has less of a time constraint, meaning you are able to spend more time in the chair during your visit. As a result, patients may feel that their dental issues have been properly tended to.
NHS or private dentist – which one is right for you?
Patients can use an NHS practice and a private practice simultaneously to cater to all your dental needs. If you want to use just one type of clinic, the advantages and disadvantages are clear:
Advantage | NHS | Private Dentist |
|---|---|---|
Lower Cost | ✔ | ✘ |
Appointment availability | ✘ | ✔ |
Waiting Times | ✘ | ✔ |
Treatment Options | ✘ | ✔ |
Why choose Yorkshire Dental Suite?
Choosing Yorkshire Dental Suite means you can expect an outstanding patient experience, thanks to our modern technologies, attentive team members and spa-like practices. Don’t just take it from us - we have over 3,000 5-star ratings on Google reviews. Our wide range of treatment options not available on the NHS allow you to reclaim and maintain a healthy smile with ease, whether that’s with life-changing procedures such as dental implants or Nanofill Composite Bonding®.
Conclusion:
Patients should take into consideration prices, appointment availability and treatment options to determine which type of clinic is right for them. If you opt for a private dental practice, allow Yorkshire Dental Suite to give you the smile you have always dreamed of.