Receiving dental care is important for your overall health. In Scotland, many people can access dental treatment through the NHS. Whether you’re new to the area or seeking to change your dentist, understanding the process and available services helps you get the care you need effectively and affordably.
Registering with an NHS Dentist
To receive NHS dental care, you must register with a practice that offers NHS services. Start by searching for local NHS dental practices accepting new patients. Contact your chosen practice to ask about availability. You’ll need to provide personal information, such as your name, address, NHS number, and identification if necessary.
Register With an NHS Dentist in Aberdeen
Dental Practice Registration Availability
Not all dental practices have space for new NHS patients at all times. If a practice is full, they may place you on a waiting list or refer you elsewhere. Contact several practices in your area to find one with availability.
Urgent Dental Care Before Registration
If you need urgent care before being registered, you can still receive treatment. Contact NHS 24 by dialing 111 for advice, especially if you’re experiencing pain, swelling, infection, bleeding, or trauma. Emergency NHS treatment is prioritised regardless of registration status.
What is the 2-Month Rule for NHS Dentistry?
How Do You Know If You Are an NHS Patient?
After successful registration and your first NHS appointment, you will receive confirmation from your dental practice. Keep your contact details updated and attend scheduled check-ups to maintain your registration.
Deregistration
You may be deregistered if you fail to attend appointments or don’t visit for an extended period (usually over two years). Let your practice know promptly if you’re changing dentists or moving.
What You Receive as an NHS Dental Patient
NHS patients are entitled to routine examinations, preventive care, fillings, root canal treatments, dentures, and certain surgeries. Cosmetic procedures, such as teeth whitening or veneers, are not covered.
What Are My Rights as an NHS Dental Patient?
Are All Treatments Available on the NHS?
No. NHS dental care covers clinically necessary treatments for oral health. Cosmetic treatments like teeth whitening and veneers are not included. If a treatment is not available through the NHS, your dentist will explain private options.
Your Treatment Plan
Following an examination, your dentist will discuss any findings and suggest a treatment plan. For complex procedures, a written treatment plan with itemised services and costs will be provided.
Prior Approval
Some NHS treatments, such as complex dentures or orthodontic care, require prior approval before proceeding. This may cause a slight delay while authorisation is obtained.
How Much Is a Tooth Extraction NHS?
Patient Charges Under the NHS
While NHS dental services are subsidised, most adults still face some charges. Costs depend on the type of treatment you receive. Your dentist will provide a cost estimate before starting treatment.
Who Is Entitled to Free NHS Dental Treatment?
You may qualify for free treatment if you are:
Under 26 years old
Pregnant or have had a baby in the last 12 months
Receiving certain income-based benefits
Named on specific NHS exemption certificates
Eligibility requires appropriate documentation at your appointment.
How Much Will a Full Set of Dentures Cost on the NHS?
Preventive Care Programmes
Childsmile Programme
Childsmile is an NHS initiative to improve children’s oral health in Scotland. It includes tooth-brushing support in schools, fluoride varnish applications, and oral health education. Ask your practice for information on how your child can benefit from Childsmile.
Preventive Care Programme for Adults
Adults also benefit from preventive NHS services like regular check-ups, oral hygiene advice, and scale and polish treatments when needed. Preventive care aims to address issues early, reducing the need for extensive treatments later.
Are Private Fillings Better Than NHS?
Access to a Translator
If English isn’t your first language, you can request an interpreter. Ask your practice in advance to arrange professional translation services.
Complaints Process
If you’re unhappy with your care, raise your concern directly with your dental practice. Most issues can be resolved informally. If necessary, escalate the complaint to NHS Scotland or the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman. Practices should have a clear complaints policy available.
Other Languages and Accessible Formats
Information on NHS dental services is available in multiple languages and accessible formats, such as audio, easy-read, or braille. Ask your practice or local health board for these resources.
Help Us Improve NHS Inform
Feedback from patients helps improve dental services. After appointments, most NHS dental clinics encourage patients to fill out short feedback surveys to help shape better services.
Search for Local Dental Services
Use the NHS directory or local health authority resources to search for NHS dental practices in your area. Make sure to filter your search for NHS services and confirm availability by calling the practices.
NHS Care at Our Practice
Cove Dental and Implant Centre is proud to provide NHS dental care to the community. From preventive education to essential treatments, our team is dedicated to delivering high-quality care for all eligible patients. Contact us via email to check registration openings or for any questions about available services.
FAQs
How long can I go without seeing my NHS dentist before being deregistered?
You may be deregistered after approximately two years without attending appointments. Regular visits are important to maintain your registration.
Can I receive private treatment while registered as an NHS patient?
Yes, you can opt for private treatments for services not covered by the NHS. Your dentist will clearly explain these options.
Is there a waiting list for NHS dental registration?
Some practices may have a waiting list if they are full. It’s best to contact multiple practices for availability.
What should I do if I need emergency dental care?
Call NHS 24 at 111 for urgent care, especially if you’re not registered with a practice.
Do NHS dental practices treat children?
Yes, children are eligible for free NHS dental care, and services like Childsmile provide tailored support for young patients.
Author Details
This article has been written and reviewed by the professional team at Cove Dental and Implant Centre. Our clinicians and oral care educators ensure all information is accurate, clear, and helpful for patients seeking trusted dental guidance.
Last Updated
5 December 2025
