NHS Dental Care: What You Need to Know

Advice and Information - 7 July 2025

Many people in Enfield are unsure about how to access NHS dental services. Whether you're due for a check-up or struggling with tooth pain, understanding your options is key.

We’ve created a factsheet that explains how NHS dental care works, who is eligible, what it costs, and how to find a dentist near you. This article gives you a snapshot of the key information and links you to both the factsheet and our full report on NHS dental care in Enfield.

Who Can Access NHS Dental Care?

Everyone who lives in the UK is eligible to use NHS dental services. Some people may also qualify for free NHS dental care, including:

  • Children under 18
  • Full-time students under 19
  • Pregnant people or those who’ve had a baby in the last 12 months
  • People with a valid HC2 certificate
  • Armed forces compensation recipients
  • Some hospital patients receiving NHS dental treatment

How to Find an NHS Dentist

Finding a dentist that accepts NHS patients can still be a challenge. But there a good news: Based on our report in January 2025, access to NHS Dentists in Enfield is improving.

Here’s how to get started:

  1. Contact local dental practices directly and ask if they’re accepting NHS patients: https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-dentist/
  2. Reach out to Healthwatch Enfield if you like support in finding your NHD dentist.
    📧 admin@healthwatchenfield.co.uk
    📞 0208 373 6283
  3. Download the factsheet to support a friend, neighbour or family member who needs clear, accessible information about NHS dental care.

NHS Dental Factsheet

What Does NHS Dental Treatment Cost?

There are four main bands of NHS dental treatment:

  • Band 1 – £27.40: Check-ups, x-rays, cleanings, fluoride, and basic gum care
  • Band 2 – £75.30: Fillings, tooth removal, root canals, and deeper gum treatment
  • Band 3 – £326.70: Crowns, dentures, bridges, orthodontics, and complex appliances
  • Urgent Care – £27.40: Emergency pain relief, abscess drainage, temporary fillings, up to 2 extractions

Some services are always free, such as removing stitches or repairing dentures.

 

Read Our Full Report on NHS Dentistry in Enfield

Earlier this year, we published a report based on feedback from NHS Dentist on availability and from residents about their experiences with NHS dental services.

Here are some of the key findings:

  • Double the number of practices are now accepting NHS patients compared to last year
  • But 25% of people still find it difficult to book an appointment
  • Nearly 30% struggle to afford dental care, even under the NHS
  • Many residents, particularly from minority ethnic backgrounds, report greater difficulties accessing services

Read the full report to learn more about the challenges and progress in local dental care — and how your voice can help shape change.

Dental Care Report

 

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