NHS Dental Eligibility Checker
Find out whether your NHS dental treatment in England could be free, whether you can get help with costs, or what you'd pay. Based on NHSBSA guidance.
Free 60 seconds No medical information needed
This check is based on NHSBSA guidance for England and is not a decision on your entitlement.
Many people in England pay for NHS dental treatment without realising they could get it free. Age, pregnancy, certain benefits and NHS certificates can all mean you pay nothing. Answer a few questions to see which applies to you - or to someone you care for.
What happens after you check your eligibility?
If you're likely entitled to free treatment
- Book an NHS dental appointment and tell the practice you're claiming free treatment
- Bring proof if needed, such as an HC2 or MatEx certificate, or a recent benefit award letter
If you may be able to get help with costs
- Apply for the NHS Low Income Scheme using an HC1 form - it's free to apply
- An HC2 certificate gives free treatment and an HC3 gives partial help with costs
- Wait until you've confirmed you qualify before signing the free treatment declaration
If you'll pay standard NHS charges
- You'll pay one of three fixed NHS charge bands, depending on the treatment you need
- Ask your dentist which band your treatment falls into
Important
If you claim free treatment and you're later found not to be entitled, you may have to repay the cost and pay a penalty charge. Always check before signing the declaration at the dentist.
In England, you can get free NHS dental treatment if you're under 18, or 18 and in full-time education, or if you're pregnant or had a baby in the last 12 months. You can also qualify if you or your partner receive certain benefits, such as Income Support, Pension Credit (Guarantee Credit), income-related ESA, income-based JSA, or Universal Credit within the earnings limits. The NHS Low Income Scheme may also help.
If you don't qualify for free treatment, you pay one fixed charge for the band your treatment falls into. From 1 April 2026: Band 1 is £27.90 (examination, X-rays, scale and polish if appropriate). Band 2 is £76.60 (Band 1 plus fillings, extractions and root canal treatment). Band 3 is £332.10 (Bands 1 and 2 plus crowns, dentures and bridges).
This checker covers England only. Dental charges and exemptions are different in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, so check the health department website for your nation.
FAQs
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Last reviewed: October 2026
This checker gives general guidance based on NHSBSA rules for free NHS dental treatment in England. It is not a decision on your entitlement and does not provide medical or legal advice. Entitlement depends on your circumstances and the evidence you provide at your appointment.