Private v NHS

For 50 years the National Health Service has served us well, improving the dental health of the nation considerably.For the first time in April 2006, the government imposed a new contract based on a fixed budget and targets. This was never tested and there was no mention of quality of work. Almost all dentists were unhappy with the contract. 98% of dentists surveyed said that the new contract had affected their clinical decision making.
This practice did not accept a contract for adult patients, who are now all treated only on a private basis. Patients up to the age of 18 can still be seen on the NHS. Today a number of treatment options are not available on the NHS and our choice of materials is limited. Recent advances in technique have not been included in the NHS fee scales and furthermore, successive governments have imposed rules, which do not relate to good dentistry.

Standards of Care...

The Royal College of Surgeons has defined two acceptable standards of dental treatment.

Standard B is defined as:
" The minimum acceptable standard below which there is a potential for damage to the patient as a result of the treatment or lack of treatment provided."
All NHS treatment is performed to this standard.

Something better…

What if you desire something better?

Standard A is defined as
"A standard of excellence possible where there are no clinical limitations imposed by affordability, time or the patient's wishes."
When private treatment is performed, every attempt is made to reach this standard. Choice of treatment option is widened and each treatment can be characterised more to harmonise with your own oral environment.

How private treatment is different…

Gum Health:
We have the services of a hygienist. Government rules are highly detrimental in the fight against gum disease.

Fillings:
A wide range of quality materials can be used including white fillings in back teeth.

Crowns and Bridges:
With these advanced restorations we are not limited to what material or techniques can be used.

Cosmetic Dentistry:
With new generation bonding materials it is possible to improve the appearance of teeth. We can also change the colour of teeth through the use of home bleaching kits.

This is by no means a comprehensive list of the differences and options. Unfortunately, the NHS has become a question of what can and cannot be done.

Click here for a Guide to our Fees