Waiting times

Dentists are facing extremely high waiting times for appointments. This is because of COVID limiting the number of patients that dentists can see, causing a backlog, and because of the contracts NHS dentists are under. You can read more about it here. If you are able to travel, you can register for a dentist outside of Camden, in any borough in London – or any region in England.

Availability

We try to get the latest average wait times for new NHS patients for Camden dental practices. To find out more, contact us.

Costs

Dental services and treatments offered by the NHS are completely free for those who are:

• under 18, or under 19 and in full-time education
• pregnant or have had a baby in the last 12 months
• being treated in an NHS hospital and your treatment is carried out by the hospital dentist (but you may have to pay for any dentures or bridges)
• receiving low-income benefits, or you’re under 20 and a dependant of someone receiving low-income benefits (to know whether you’re entitled to free dental care see here)

NHS Dental appointment costs start at £23.80. This is a heavily reduced cost compared to private dentists, and includes an examination, diagnosis, and advice. If necessary, it also includes X-rays, a scale and polish (if clinically needed), and planning for further treatment.

If you require urgent care, you’ll pay the fee of £23.80, unless it requires more than one appointment or future follow-up appointments.

Complaints

Your dental practice may have a complaints procedure. Contact your dentist to speak to the practice manager.

You can also contact the North Central London ICB who deals with NHS services in Camden and the surrounding area. Please note that you cannot contact both (in accordance with the 2009 NHS Complaints Regulation).

Website: https://nclhealthandcare.org.uk/about/advice-compliments-and-complaints/

Email: nclicb.complaints@nhs.net

Telephone: 020 3198 9743