If you are looking for affordable dental treatment in Aberdeen or Cove Bay, understanding current NHS dental prices can help you plan your care with confidence. At our Cove Bay practice, NHS Band 1 starts at £26.80 — here is a full breakdown of what you can expect to pay for every treatment. Many patients across Aberdeen choose NHS dental care because it offers lower-cost treatment for both routine and emergency dental needs. At Cove Bay Dental & Implant Centre, we help patients understand NHS and private treatment costs clearly before treatment begins, so there are no surprises.
Understanding NHS Dental Treatment in Aberdeen
NHS dental treatment in Scotland is designed to keep essential dental care affordable. Whether you need a routine examination, emergency care, fillings, dentures, or crowns, NHS fees are set nationally and partially subsidised.
NHS Patient Charges (2026)
| Treatment | Cost |
|---|---|
| Examination | Free |
| Emergency Appointment | £17.32 |
| X-Ray | £6.08 |
| Scale & Polish – Periodontal Treatment | £17.32 |
| Amalgam (Silver) Filling – Single Surface | £14.00 |
| Amalgam Filling – Two Surfaces in One Tooth | £28.04 |
| Amalgam Filling (MO/DO Surfaces) Premolars/Molars | £19.64 |
| Amalgam Filling (3 Surfaces) | £29.92 |
| Composite (White Fillings) | £14.00 – £29.92 |
| Composite Supplements | £29.92 – £59.76 |
| Glass Ionomer Filling | £13.48 – £26.96 |
| Root Canal Treatment (Incisor/Canine) | £104.68 |
| Root Canal Treatment (Upper Premolar) | £127.12 |
| Root Canal Treatment (Lower Premolar) | £100.64 |
| Root Canal Treatment (Molar) | £169.20 |
| Crown (Bonded Non-Precious) – Incisors/Canines/Premolars | £158.20 |
| Crown (Non-Precious Metal Alloy) | £164.52 |
| Crown Placement – Incomplete Fee | £115.20 |
| Post & Core Cast in Metal Alloy | £40.24 |
| Prefabricated Core & Post | £40.24 |
| Recement Crown | £17.32 |
| Bridge Retainer (Bonded Non-Precious) | £147.72 |
| Bridge Pontic (Bonded Non-Precious) | £147.72 |
| Bridge – Incomplete Fee | £114.48 |
| Cast Post (Per Abutment Tooth) | £40.24 |
| Conventional Bridge | £147.72 |
| Study Models (Per Set) | £29.92 |
| Temporary Bridge / Temporary Crown | £40.24 |
| Recement Bridge | £37.40 |
| Extraction | £31.80 |
| Surgical Extraction | £60.76 |
| Acrylic Full Upper & Lower Dentures | £161.76 |
| Acrylic Denture (Full) – Incomplete Fee | £113.24 |
| Cobalt Chrome Denture (1–3 Teeth) | £241.20 |
| Cobalt Chrome Denture (4–8 Teeth) | £296.32 |
| Cobalt Chrome Denture (9+ Teeth) | £314.08 |
| Cobalt Chrome Denture (Incomplete Fee) | £168.84 – £219.84 |
| Acrylic Partial Upper or Lower Dentures (1–3 Teeth) | £129.04 |
| Acrylic Partial Upper or Lower Dentures (4–8 Teeth) | £144.88 |
| Acrylic Partial Upper or Lower Dentures (9+ Teeth) | £156.08 |
| Additional Fee Per Special Tray | £28.04 |
| Tooth Addition, Hard Reline or Repair of Denture | £56.08 |
| Acrylic Denture – Incomplete Fee | £90.32 – £109.28 |
These NHS prices help patients across Aberdeen access essential dental treatment at a much lower cost than many private alternatives.
For a full breakdown of current private and NHS fees, visit our dental price list.
What Does NHS Dental Care Cover?
NHS dental care covers treatments that are clinically necessary to keep your mouth healthy. This may include:
- Dental examinations
- Emergency appointments
- Fillings
- Tooth extractions
- Root canal treatment
- Crowns
- Bridges
- Dentures
- Preventive advice
Cosmetic-only treatments are usually not available under the NHS. If you are interested in improving the appearance of your smile, our composite bonding treatments may be suitable.
What If You Cannot Afford Dental Treatment?
Many patients in Aberdeen worry about the cost of dental treatment. However, help may be available through the NHS Low Income Scheme.
You may qualify for reduced-cost or free NHS dental treatment if you:
- Receive certain government benefits
- Are under 18 years old
- Are under 19 and in full-time education
- Are pregnant
- Have had a baby within the last 12 months
- Qualify through the NHS Low Income Scheme
Our team can help explain your options during your appointment.
Emergency Dental Care in Aberdeen
Dental emergencies can happen suddenly. NHS emergency appointments are designed to provide fast relief for pain, swelling, infection, or dental trauma.
Common emergency dental problems include:
- Severe toothache
- Swelling or abscess
- Broken teeth
- Lost fillings or crowns
- Bleeding after extraction
If you need urgent dental care in Cove Bay or Aberdeen, please contact our practice as soon as possible through our contact page.
How to Keep Dental Costs Lower
Preventive care is often the best way to avoid expensive treatment later. A few simple habits can protect your teeth and gums:
- Brush twice daily using fluoride toothpaste
- Floss every day
- Reduce sugary snacks and fizzy drinks
- Attend regular dental examinations
- Seek advice early if you notice pain or sensitivity
Small dental problems are usually cheaper and easier to treat when caught early.
Worried About Cost?
Call 01224 872675 or book online today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are NHS dental treatments cheaper than private treatment?
Yes. NHS treatment is subsidised by the government, which helps reduce costs for essential dental care.
How much is an NHS emergency dentist appointment in Aberdeen?
An NHS emergency dental appointment costs £17.32 for patients who are not exempt from charges.
Does the NHS cover white fillings?
Yes, some composite white fillings are available under NHS treatment where clinically appropriate.
Where can I see a full NHS dental price list?
You can view our latest Aberdeen dental price list here.
Reviewed by:
Dr. Parsa, Principal Dentist at Cove Bay Dental & Implant Centre
Last Reviewed:
15 May 2026
