• Band 1 £25.80 covers an examination, diagnosis and advice. If necessary, it also includes X-rays and planning for further treatment

• Band 2 £70.70 covers all treatment covered by Band 1, plus additional treatment, such as fillings, root canal treatment and removing teeth (extractions).  

• Band 3 £306.80 covers all treatment covered by Bands 1 and 2, plus more complex procedures, such as crowns and dentures.

NHS exemptions

You do not have to pay for NHS dental treatment if, when your treatment starts, you are:

• under 18  
• under 19 and in full-time education 
• pregnant or you’ve had a baby within the 12 months before treatment starts 
• staying in an NHS hospital and the hospital dentist carries out your treatment 

You can also get free NHS dental treatment if, when the treatment starts or when you’re asked to pay:

• you’re included in an award of Income Support, income-based Jobseeker's Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance or Pension Credit guarantee credit or Universal credit (check entitlement after October 31 2015)  
• you’re named on, or entitled to, a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate 
• you’re named on a valid HC2 certificate  

If you're named on a valid HC3 certificate, you may not have to pay for all your NHS dental treatment. HC2 and HC3 certificates are issued under the NHS Low Income Scheme. 

If you receive any of the following benefits you will not be exempt from paying for NHS dental treatment unless you also fall under one of the categories listed above:

• Incapacity Benefit 
• Contribution-based Jobseeker’s Allowance 
• Contribution-based Employment and Support Allowance 
• Disability Living Allowance 
• Council Tax Benefit 
• Housing Benefit 
• Pension Credit savings credit

 Proof of your entitlement 

You’ll be asked to show your dentist written proof that you’re entitled to financial help with dental treatment. This will vary depending on your circumstances. To check what documents you need, see the NHS HC11 leaflet: Help with health costs (PDF, 452kb).

If you would like further guidance on understanding NHS dental charges please clink here