by Julia Hendon
Dental care is available on the NHS, but the service that you can get is limited in comparison to private dentistry. Herein we explore what you can expect from your private dentist so that you can be sure to choose the right one.
The number of private dentists has risen dramatically in recent years and there are a couple of reasons for this. Firstly, it has become more difficult to register with an NHS dentist and many people have therefore looked elsewhere for treatment. There has also been an increased interest in cosmetic dental surgery, which is not commonly covered by the NHS. So what can you expect from your private dentist?
Appointments
One of the most challenging factors with NHS dentists is in getting an appointment at a time that will suit you. NHS dentists are generally full and getting an appointment can be difficult, but private appointments are generally more commonly available. With a private dentist, you can expect to be able to get an appointment promptly and to be able to book well in advance where required.
Cost
Private dentistry costs more, simply because it is not subsidised by the government. When you go to a private dentist you can, therefore, expect to pay more, but you should also expect to pay a reasonable price too. When going private a check-up should cost between £25-£78, a filling around £25 and a new crown should cost between £250-£450. If costs begin to exceed these levels, then you may wish to look elsewhere.
Private dentists are able to charge you for your treatment however they want, which means that they can expect payment up front or immediately after treatment. In many cases, however, a private dentist will understand that the cost of treatment is too high to pay all at once and may allow you to pay by installments instead. When signing up with your private dentist it is reasonable to query how payments will need to be made following future treatments.
Quality guarantee
Guarantees on private dental work are not automatic, but in many cases, you will be able to enjoy the security of a guarantee on expensive treatments. The British Dental Health Foundation states that a private dentist should be able to provide a guarantee for work that is carried out for the patient.
What’s more, having a private dentist does not preclude you from being able to use NHS dentists for regular check-ups and treatments as well. There are also plenty of private dentists who work both as NHS dentists and as private dentists. This means that they may be able to offer a complete service with some additional private services added on top of the standard treatments that you receive on the NHS.
Cosmetic dentistry
Cosmetic dentistry services such as teeth whitening, veneers, and cosmetic dentures are not usually included as NHS treatments, but a private dentist will be able to offer these luxury services for you. Cosmetic treatments such as these can be beneficial to both appearance and personal wellbeing, so a private dentist can be well worth exploring if you desire cosmetic dentistry to be carried out.
A private dentist can offer greater flexibility in their treatments and in appointments too. To get the best possible service for your teeth and ensure you are able to keep them in the best shape possible, consider going private with your dentistry.