Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


Q: Why are dental fees in private clinics higher than in NHS practises?
A:  Practises that provide NHS dental services are partly subsidised by the government, therefore the treatment costs in NHS clinics are lower than in privately owned ones.
 
Q: Are dentures the only option for patients with a number of missing teeth?
A:  No. Patients who suffer from missing teeth problem have additionally the option of restoration using dental implants or dental bridges. Dentures are the cheapest option that is commonly used but they do not provide a comfortable experience.
 
Q: Am I going to feel pain during the treatment?
A: Local anaesthesia or sedation is commonly used in private clinics for most of dental procedures. As a result treatments are pain-free in most of the cases. Some pain may be felt after certain treatments but usually standard pain killers will help.
 
Q: What are the main differences between NHS and private dentists?
A: Price is the main one. Cost of treatments in NHS practises is lower than in private clinics. However, private dentists provide much wider range of dental treatments including cosmetic dentistry work. Dental materials used by private dentists are also usually of better quality.
 
Q: Why do costs differ in private clinics?
A:  Private dental fees are set by the management of each practise. The costs are usually determined by the location of the practise and the experience and reputation of the dentist. Clinics centrally located with the proven track of satisfied patients usually charge premium for their services.
 
Q: Can I negotiate the cost with the clinic for a bigger dental work?
A: Some private clinics will reduce the price of their services when a patient is undergoing a more expensive set of treatments. However, these arrangements need to be discussed individually with the clinic. 
  
Q:  What is a veneer?
A: Veneer is a thin layer of composite or porcelain that is put over the front of the tooth surface. It is mainly used in cosmetic dentistry for discoloured, chipped or slightly damaged teeth. If the tooth is seriously damaged (i.e. broken in half or damaged by an infection) a crown might used.
 
Q:  Is modern dentistry safe?
A: Although it is a very generic question, modern dentistry can be regarded as safe. Standards of dental materials currently used are high and some of dental clinics  even offer a guarantee for their work. Radiology diagnosis in the form of various X rays helps dentists to determine the right procedure and course of action.
 
Q: How can I book an emergency dental appointment?
A: Firstly, try your local NHS dentist. If they can’t help immediately, you can contact the A&E ward at your local hospital (if pain is severe) or you can try to schedule an appointment with a private dentist. Some practises offer 24-7 dental appointments although these are sometimes charged at a premium rate.
 
Q: How long will teeth whitening last?
A: It depends. Teeth whitening only lightens your teeth and not, as some might think, paint your teeth white. Whiter smile after the treatment last for about 1 to 3 years but it depends on the anatomical conditions as well as lifestyle habits. Smokers and fans of fizzy drinks and black coffee will enjoy the whiter colour of their teeth much shorter.
 
Q: What is the true cost of a tooth restoration on an implant?
A: When considering an implant treatment one needs to understand the true cost of such restoration. The treatment costs consist of consultation fees that include all the necessary X rays and CT scans, bone or sinus lift restorations (optional), surgical insertion of the implant, abutment and the crown. The final cost will only be known after all those costs are summed up together.