Get the best from your NHS
Finding an NHS dentist
Call the Dental Helpline on 0300 1000 899 to find out which local dentists are accepting NHS patients.
Many dentists take NHS and private patients. If you want NHS care, check that the dentist provides this and will treat you as an NHS patient. Even then some treatment – e.g. cosmetic dentistry - may only be available privately.
To find out more about looking after your teeth, visit NHS Choices.
Emergency dental care
If you need emergency dental care and your own dentist cannot help, call the Dental Helpline (0300 1000 899) and specify you are in pain. They will give you an appointment at one of several practices around the city.
Outside normal working hours, phone the emergency dental service in Brighton and Hove on 03000 24 25 48. This service is available from 5.30 pm - 10.30 pm on weekdays and from 9 am - 5.30 pm on Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays.
I am visiting Brighton - can I still see a dentist?
Yes. Phone the NHS Dental Helpline on 0300 1000 899.
Special care dental services
We have a special care dental service for people who have problems in using standard services (e.g. housebound elderly people, and people with disabilities, mental health problems or learning disabilities).
You need to be referred to this service by your GP, dentist or another health professional.
Dental charges
You only pay one charge for each course of treatment even if you need to visit your dentist more than once to finish it.
If you need more treatment in the same or a lower charge band (e.g. another filling) within two months of completing a course, you do not have to pay again.
Children under 18, and many adults, do not have to pay NHS charges.
More information about free NHS dental treatment.
Current NHS dental charges are:
- Band 1 treatment (examination, diagnosis, advice on how to prevent future problems, and a scale and polish if needed) £17.50
- Band 2 treatment (everything in Band 1 plus any further treatment such as fillings, root canal work or extractions) £48
- Band 3 treatment (everything in Bands 1 and 2 plus crowns, dentures or bridges) £209
- Urgent treatment – £17.50
