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NHS or Private Dentist in Norwich? What You Need to Know in 2025

Is It So Hard to Find an NHS Dentist in 2025?

Finding an NHS dentist in Norwich can be tough these days — long waiting lists, limited appointments and uncertainty about costs leave many wondering: Should I switch to a private dentist? Or Is NHS care still the best option?

If these are the questions you are asking then you are not on your own. This blog will guide you through everything to know about NHS dental care, why private dentistry such as Pearl Dental Surgery could be the answer and how you can afford quality care without costing the earth.

NHS dental practices across the UK including Norwich are facing immense pressure. Staff shortages, limited government contracts and increased demand post-COVID have pushed many clinics to pause new patient intake under the NHS. If you have been calling around without luck, you’re not alone. Many patients are turning to private care simply because NHS slots are full or have long wait times.
What Can You Do If You Can’t Find an NHS Dentist?

Here are a few steps you can take:

  • Join an NHS dentist’s waiting list (even if it’s long)
  • Call NHS 111 for advice in urgent situations
  • Consider private clinics, especially for essential or time-sensitive treatments
  • Look into low-cost dental schools that offer supervised care


Even if you are not ready to go private long-term, you might choose it temporarily until NHS access becomes available again.

How Much Does NHS Dental Treatment Cost?

As of 2025, NHS dental care in England is grouped into three bands:

  • Band 1: £26.80 – Exam, diagnosis, and advice
  • Band 2: £73.50 – Includes fillings, extractions
  • Band 3: £319.10 – Crowns, dentures, or bridges


These prices are subject to change annually.

How Much Do Private Dentists Charge in the UK?

Private prices vary by region and clinic, but here’s a rough idea:

Treatment

Cost Range (Private)

Exam & consultation

£40 – £100

Fillings

£80 – £200

Extractions

£100 – £250

Root Canal

£300 – £800

Some clinics offer payment plans or monthly dental memberships that lower the cost of routine care.

Common Worries — Answered

Q: Will I lose my NHS spot if I see a private dentist?
No. You can mix NHS and private care. But if you are not going to visit your NHS dentist for more than 2 years then they may remove you from their list.
Dental materials, lab work, staffing and equipment are costly. Private care includes more time, flexibility and sometimes higher-quality materials.
  • Check if you qualify for free NHS dental care
  • Look into charity programs or university dental clinics
  • Consider spreading costs through 0% finance options (available at many private practices)
If you don’t visit your NHS dentist for 2 years or more, you may be removed from their patient list. You’ll need to re-register which can be tough if they’re at capacity.
  • Teeth whitening
  • Cosmetic veneers or crowns (non-medical)
  • Invisalign or other private aligners
  • Same-day crowns
  • White fillings for back teeth (may not be offered under NHS)

These treatments are available privately only, which is why many patients explore private clinics.

  • Not automatically. Free NHS dental treatment is available only if you meet specific criteria, such as:
    • Being on qualifying benefits (e.g., Universal Credit)
    • Pregnant or had a baby in the last 12 months
    • Certain medical exemptions
Simply being over 60 doesn’t guarantee free dental care.

Looking for a Trusted Private Dentist in Norwich?

At Pearl Dental Surgery, we are focused on making private care more approachable and affordable. Whether you’ve been turned away from NHS practices or simply need faster, more flexible care then we’re here to help with:

  • 0% finance on major treatments
  • Family-friendly, pressure-free dental care
  • Transparent pricing with no hidden fees

Book a private dental consultation in Norwich with Pearl Dental Surgery

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