I have copied and pasted this from the Department of Health website. The information tells you all about changes in fees. It should make it more simple to remember and follow. However, I’m not sure if it is fair. What do you think?
These changes are designed to benefit patients by supporting better access to local services and simplifying the system of dental charges. They are also designed to to provide greater stability for NHS dentists and support them in carrying out simpler courses of treatment with more time available to give preventative advice to patients.
There are now three standard charges for NHS dental treatment. This makes it easier to know how much you may need to pay and also helps ensure that you are being charged for NHS care (rather than private care).
From April 1 2008, NHS dental charges will be:
* Band 1 course of treatment – £16.20
This covers an examination, diagnosis (e.g. x-rays), advice on how to prevent future problems, and a scale and polish if needed.
* Band 2 course of treatment – £44.60
This covers everything listed in Band 1 above, plus any further treatment such as fillings, root canal work or if your dentist needs to take out one or more of your teeth.
* Band 3 course of treatment – £198.00
This covers everything listed in Bands 1 and 2 above, plus crowns, dentures or bridges.
* Urgent treatment – £16.20
If you require urgent care, but your urgent treatment needs more than one appointment to complete, you will only need to pay one charge of £16.20.
These are the only dental charges your dentist should ask you to pay when you are having NHS treatment.
http://www.dh.gov.uk/en/Aboutus/Chiefprofessionalofficers/Chiefdentalofficer/DH_4138821
