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Accepting New Private and Denplan Patients.      Weekend appointments available.      Accepting New Private and Denplan Patients.      Weekend appointments available.      Accepting New Private and Denplan Patients.      Weekend appointments available.      Accepting New Private and Denplan Patients.      Weekend appointments available.      Accepting New Private and Denplan Patients.      Weekend appointments available.
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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.

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

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What’s the main difference between NHS and private dental care?
NHS care covers clinically necessary treatments at subsidised fixed fees, while private care offers wider choice of treatments, premium materials and flexible scheduling.
Often yes NHS practices may have longer waiting times or fewer appointment slots, whereas private clinics generally offer quicker access and more flexible hours.
Yes you can choose private treatment for services not covered by the NHS, or register privately even if you previously had NHS care.
Consider your budget, urgency of treatment, whether you want cosmetic options, and how quickly you need an appointment talk to your local clinic about both pathways.

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