NHS dental charges and exemptions: England’s bands explained

These bands apply in England. Checked on 5 November 2026, NHSBSA’s dated charge schedule lists the amounts below. Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland use their own charging arrangements; do not apply this table to a practice in another nation.

The NHS treatment guide explains what falls into each band. A treatment name alone does not replace the dentist’s assessment or establish that every preferred material or cosmetic option is available on the NHS.

Within a course, treatment in several bands is charged at the highest applicable band. You do not add Band 1, Band 2 and Band 3 together. Several necessary fillings included in the same Band 2 course do not each attract a separate £76.60 charge. Read how the NHS groups treatment.

More than one visit may be needed to finish that course. NHSBSA’s patient guide, page 19 (PDF) explains that one charge still applies, although the practice may collect it in instalments. Ask which planned appointments belong to this course and when it will be completed. Keep that answer with the treatment plan, especially if appointments are rearranged or the proposed work changes.

The two-month rule is conditional. NHSBSA defines a continuation as returning to the same practice within two calendar months of completing earlier treatment. Further treatment in the same or a lower band is not charged under that rule. It does not apply where the earlier course was incomplete or where there is an urgent course. Check the continuation conditions.

Further treatment in a higher band can carry the higher-band fee. An urgent appointment can also be followed by separately charged treatment. Ask the practice to identify the completed-course date and explain how the new work is being classified. The rule does not make every dental appointment during the following two months free.

Free NHS dental treatment includes people under 18, or under 19 in full-time education, when treatment starts. Maternity entitlement applies if you are pregnant or had a baby within the previous twelve months when accepted for the course. NHSBSA explains these timing rules and evidence.

Ask which proof to bring, such as education evidence, MAT B1, a maternity exemption certificate or birth documentation. The NHS guide also covers other circumstances, including treatment after a stillbirth and hospital dental care, where dentures or bridges can still attract a charge. Being retired or over 60 is not, on its own, a dental exemption. Check dental entitlement separately from any free-prescription entitlement.

A valid HC2 certificate provides full help with NHS dental charges; HC3 may reduce what you pay and states your contribution. Benefits have specific conditions: New Style Jobseeker’s Allowance, New Style Employment and Support Allowance and Pension Credit Savings Credit alone do not automatically qualify. Check NHSBSA’s dental entitlement guidance.

Universal Credit entitlement depends on earnings in the relevant assessment period and household circumstances. Follow the official Universal Credit criteria and checker link rather than assuming an award means free care. Show the evidence and read the declaration before signing. If money is the obstacle but you have no qualifying exemption, our Low Income Scheme guide explains the application route.

An NHS exemption does not pay for private dental work. Before agreeing to a mixed plan, request the NHS course, private options and respective prices in writing. If the plan changes, ask for the revised total and the reason. Your record should show what you agreed to, rather than only an unexplained payment amount.

If you paid for NHS treatment before establishing entitlement, NHSBSA explains the HC5(D) refund route in England. The usual deadline is three months from the last payment, and receipts must show the date and amount paid. Follow the official instructions for late claims; acceptance is not guaranteed. Use finding NHS dental care for access, and the four-nations guide for care elsewhere in the UK.