NHS Dentists in Hemel Hempstead Taking New Patients » Find an NHS Dentist « Dental Choices (2024)

FAQs

NHS Dentists in Hemel Hempstead Taking New Patients » Find an NHS Dentist « Dental Choices? ›

Why are dentists not accepting new NHS patients? Dentists face financial constraints, policy neglect, and operational challenges, leading to reluctance in accepting new NHS patients.

Why are dentists not accepting new NHS patients? Dentists face financial constraints, policy neglect, and operational challenges, leading to reluctance in accepting new NHS patients.

GP referrals

If you are a GP please refer through ERS. For patient self-referrals make self- referral, please visit our Dental Undergraduate Referrals page or call NHS 111.

The NHS Low Income Scheme (LIS) may provide help with some of the cost of your dental care if you have a low income but do not qualify for free dental care.

The big difference between NHS and private dentists is the cost. NHS dentists charge a fixed rate for each treatment, regardless of the complexity of the procedure. Private dentists, on the other hand, charge higher fees, especially for more advanced treatments, but the quality of service tends to be much higher too.

The population wants a lot of care, but there are few services. This gap is not just about the numbers. It reflects a bigger issue of access and resources in the health system. As we peel back the layers of this complex challenge, we see that the struggle to find an NHS dentist is a symptom of bigger issues.

In our recent report, we concluded that even with contract reform and a huge boost to the workforce, universal access to NHS dentistry has likely gone for good.

Can I swap from a private dentist to an NHS dentist? Of course. When you get in touch with us, you'll just need to tell us whether you're seeking an NHS dentist or a private dentist, and we'll be able to book you in accordingly. This is the case whether you have been an NHS patient or a private patient.

Your dentist has to provide you with a written treatment plan for Band 2, Band 3 or a mix of NHS and private treatments. Your treatment plan sets out the proposed dental treatment and associated costs.

You'll get a letter from the hospital within a few days of being referred to confirm they've received the referral. You should have an appointment with a specialist or to have tests soon afterwards (often within 2 weeks).

How can I fix my teeth if I don't have money? ›

There are several options available for those who need free or low-cost dental treatment. For instance, your dentist may refer you to a community clinic that offers dental treatment for a low fee, or a nearby dental school where you can be treated for free or at a low cost by students in training.

You are entitled to free NHS dental treatment if your annual family income used to work out your tax credits is £15,276 or less and you receive either: Child Tax Credit. Working Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit paid together. Working Tax Credit including a disability element.

NHS dental treatment doesn't become free when you reach a certain age, but you may be eligible for free dental treatment if you or your partner receive certain benefits. Let the receptionist know if you receive any of the following benefits when you make an appointment.

NHS dental care is subsidised by the government. This means that some of the cost of looking after your teeth has already been paid for you by the government. As a result, your NHS treatment is less expensive for you than it would have otherwise been.

Private dentists can generally offer more time with patients, which is helpful for treating immediate problems and preventing any future issues. Better quality of care, as there are no funding restrictions. More treatment options (e.g. orthodontic work, Invisalignor teeth whitening).

A dentist can remove you from their patient list by giving 3 months' notice in writing. The dentist should leave your teeth and gums in a healthy state unless you have refused any treatment recommended by them. If you are violent or threatening, they can remove you from their patient list right away.

It states: 'NHS-funded dental services in England are in near-terminal decline: nearly six million fewer courses of NHS dental treatment were provided last year than in the pre-pandemic year; funding in 2021/22 was over £500m lower in real terms than in 2014/15; and there are widespread problems in accessing a dentist' ...

Cost is the number one reason why people avoid seeing the dentist, according to a recent survey from the American Dental Association. But what many people don't realize is that postponing a dental appointment and care can actually cost more money in the long run.

The NHS 111 Wales website aims to provide you with a choice of nearest dental practices. Across Wales there is currently a high demand from patients looking for an NHS dentist.