Your NHS dentist

There are more local NHS dentists than you think 

It’s a lot easier to see an NHS dentist than you might think. In fact, there are lots of NHS dentists in your area and it’s simple to make an appointment.

How can I find an NHS dentist?

If you would like NHS dental treatment, just contact a practice providing NHS dentistry and ask for an NHS appointment.

If you would like help to find an NHS dentist in your area you can:

• Call NHS Norfolk PALS on 0800 587 4132
• Search the local dental map on this website
• Call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 (24 hrs)
• Visit the NHS Choices website at: www.nhs.uk

Do I have to pay for NHS dental treatment?

NHS dentistry is one of the few NHS services where a charge is made. However, some people may not have to pay all the costs and some may not have to pay at all.

NHS treatment is free if, when the treatment starts, you are:

• Aged under 18
• Aged under 19 and in full-time education
• Pregnant, or a mother who’s given birth in the last 12 months
• Staying at an NHS hospital where your doctor is the hospital dentist
• Receiving state benefits.

You may also be able to claim for some help towards the cost of your NHS dental treatment if you are on a low income.

To find out more about free NHS dental treatment and if you qualify call 0845 850 116, or read the leaflet Help with health costs which is available from Jobcentre Plus and NHS dentists, or online at www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk

For adults who do pay for their dental treatment there are three standard charges which are explained in the leaflet NHS dental services in England at www.dh.gov.uk. Alternatively, you can call NHS Norfolk PALS on 0800 587 4132.

What can I expect at the dentist?

Your NHS dentist will check your oral health by looking at your teeth and gums. If you need treatment, they will explain what is involved, and they will also give you some tips to help you avoid problems in the future.

You will be able to have all the treatment provided under the NHS that your dentist feels is necessary to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

What is a treatment plan?

The dentist should give you a treatment plan before carrying out any work to confirm the details and costs of the NHS treatment. If you are not given a treatment plan, you can ask for one.

How often should I visit the dentist?

You may be used to having regular dental check-ups every six months, but now check-ups may not need to be so often.

How often you will need check-ups will depend on your oral health and can be every three months or up to two years. Your dentist should discuss with you when your next visit should be.

If you have children, take them for a regular check-up as they are growing up. This will help them to learn how to care for their teeth, and any problems that may develop can be dealt with early.

If you are nervous about visiting a dentist or haven’t been for a long time, don’t worry. Discuss this with the practice and they will help and support you.

Urgent NHS treatment

If you think you need urgent treatment contact your dentist on their usual telephone number.

If you do not have a regular dentist you can also get urgent care, if necessary. Call NHS Norfolk PALS on 0800 587 4132 and they will advise you.

If you need urgent care out-of-hours, please call 0845 600 3246 for advice.

What your dentist expects from you

Please give your dentist as much notice as possible if you have to cancel or change your appointment. Remember, if you don’t attend your appointment you are stopping another patient accessing dental treatment.

Healthy teeth and gums for everyone

There are some things we can all do to keep our teeth and gums as healthy as possible, and some of them may come as a bit of a surprise.

• Brush at least twice a day with a small amount of fluoride toothpaste
• After brushing, spit out the toothpaste but do not rinse your mouth with water
• Cut down on sugary foods and drinks, and do not have them between meals
• Children should have regular check-ups while they are growing up and their mouth is developing.

Visiting your dentist is important and with more dental practices welcoming new patients, it’s never been easier to look after your teeth.