Many patients are confused about the differences between private and NHS dentists and the treatments they are offering. So we have outlined some of the main differences below.
The common assumption is that private dentistry is more expensive but this may not always be the case and usually the service and treatment outcome you receive is better and unrestricted.
Private Dentists
- Cosmetic treatment is not available on the NHS. This means the materials/treatments which produce the best appearance are often not used. Private treatment will always give you the best possible functional but also cosmetic result.
- You are able to have private appointments at anytime a practice is open including in the evening after 5pm or on Saturdays and sometimes Sundays.
- Private treatment gives us complete freedom to provide the very highest standard of treatment and materials. We have no funding restrictions and focus purely on quality of the treatment.
- Private work such as dentures, crowns, bridges and implants are usually sent to different private laboratories where named experienced technicians hand make the item. There is also usually more flexibility in returning items from a private laboratory quickly.
- Appointments are longer to allow plenty of time to complete your treatment at a more relaxed pace.
- Certain treatments are not always available on the NHS eg. dental implants.
- Tooth whitening is not usually available on the NHS.
- With private treatments you can request your treatment to be performed by a specialist and be given quick and easy access e.g. a difficult extraction.
- Orthodontic treatment for patients over the age of 18 is usually not available on the NHS and Invisalign is usually not offered on the NHS.
- Your dentist will discuss your treatment options and costs and give you a written estimate before you commit to any treatment.
NHS Dentists
- NHS patients are treated with the same care as our private patients though the government does impose some restrictions and fixes the patient charges nationally.
- Treatment needs to be functional on the NHS and not for cosmetic reasons.
- NHS treatment is designed to be cost effective for the tax payer and each NHS clinic works to a fixed NHS budget so naturally this means more cost effective materials and laboratories are used.
- We must follow government guidelines for recalling patients which may mean you may not be entitled to a check up or clean as often as you want.
- NHS cleaning is designed to ensure gum health and treat what is clinically necessary eg gum disease and not to specifically remove all stains or for cosmetic reasons.
- Appointment availability may be limited. You may not be able to get appointments outside school or work hours. You may also not be able to see more experienced dentists or specialists who choose to work outside the NHS.
- The government imposes limits on the amount of NHS treatment each practice can provide and the contracts are usually Monday to Friday 9-5. Once a clinic reaches its NHS limit they may not be able to offer any more NHS treatment until the next financial year.
Why Choose Tooth Doctor for Private Dental Treatments?
Choosing Tooth Doctor as your partner in overcoming dental anxiety is a wise decision for several compelling reasons. First and foremost, we understand the unique challenges that individuals with dental anxiety face. Our teams at Basildon and Stanford-le-Hope are not only highly skilled and experienced in providing premium dental care but also exceptionally compassionate and empathetic. We prioritise your comfort and well-being throughout every step of your dental journey.
At Tooth Doctor, we offer a range of dental anxiety management techniques, including conscious sedation and relaxation strategies, to ensure that your experience is as stress-free as possible. We take the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and tailor our approach to your specific needs. Our modern and welcoming dental clinics in Basildon and Stanford-le-Hope are designed to create a calming atmosphere, further enhancing your comfort.
Moreover, our flexible appointment scheduling, including evening and Saturday hours, allows you to choose a convenient time for your visit. We are committed to providing a dental experience that not only addresses your oral health but also helps you overcome your dental anxiety, paving the way for a lifetime of confident smiles. With Tooth Doctor, you can take the first step toward better oral health and a more positive dental experience.
Our 3 Locations in Essex and Thurrock
Tooth Doctor proudly serves the community of Essex and Thurrock with two conveniently located dental clinics. Whether you’re in Basildon or Stanford-le-Hope, a top-tier dental experience is just around the corner. The Basildon clinic is situated at 7 Market Pavement SS14 1DD. The Stanford-le-Hope clinic is at 26 Corringham Rd SS17 0AH. They are all easily accessible both by car and public transportation. With ample parking options and proximity to major transit routes, getting to us for your dental treatments is a breeze. No matter which surrounding area you’re coming from, Tooth Doctor ensures a smooth journey to a brighter smile!
Book an Appointment
Take your first step by booking an appointment with us. Our experienced private dentists in our Basildon and Stanford-le-Hope clinics will make your dental visits comfortable and stress-free.