For many people, dentures can boost confidence, restore smiles, protect oral health, and support functionality for those who have lost some or all of teir natural teeth.
No matter what stage of life you’re in, dentures are a common solution for tooth loss, but there’s one question that often pops up: ‘are dentures available on the NHS?’
For lots of people who are considering getting dentures, the answer to this question can have a major impact on their personal health and finances.
In this blog, we’ll talk about what NHS dentures are, who qualifies, and how they can help.
What kinds of dentures are available on the NHS?
Firstly: yes, dentures services are available on the NHS!
The NHS offers denture services to help make sure everyone has access to affordable and essential dental care, no matter what your financial situation is.
Primarily, NHS denture services are a lifeline for people who might not be able to pay for private dental care, and they usually include any clinically necessary treatment to keep your mouth, teeth, and gums healthy.
The two main types of denture treatment offered by the NHS are:
Complete dentures
Complete dentures are normally used when all of the natural teeth in the upper or lower jaw (or both) are missing – or when replacing an old set of dentures.
They can be created and fitted by a dentist or clinical dental technician. These dentures are often fitted immediately after teeth have been lost or removed, so you don’t need to go without teeth for a period of time.
However, since the gums and jawbone change shape as they heal without natural teeth, the complete dentures might need to be realigned, adjusted, or even replaced after a few months.
Sometimes, you might need to wait for your gums to fully heal before your new dentures are fitted.
Partial dentures
Partial dentures are usually used to replace one or more missing teeth, while also leaving the rest of your natural teeth intact.
They’re made from a nylon, plastic, or metal base, with false teeth attached. They’re normally secured in place using metal clasps which attach to your natural teeth and can be taken out for cleaning.
Partial dentures can be designed and fitted by a dentist, or by a clinical dental technician after a dentist has provided a treatment plan and certificate of oral health.
Denture alternatives
If you’re looking for an alternative to partial dentures, crowns or bridges can sometimes be an option.
These involve placing crowns on the natural teeth next to the gap left by a missing tooth, with a false tooth to fill the space.
The NHS works to make sure these treatments are effective and accessible, so all patients have affordable options for protecting their smile, oral function, and health.
What is the NHS denture process like?
Getting dentures through the NHS is usually simple and involves a few key steps:
- Finding an NHS dentist: you’ll need to register with an NHS dentist, as not every dental practice or clinic offers NHS services. You can find an NHS dentist near you and check their availability online or contact local practices for more info.
- Initial consultation: during your first visit, your NHS dentist will perform a clinical dental health assessment and decide if partial or complete dentures might be suitable for you. They’ll then come up with a treatment plan to match your needs.
- Measurements & impressions: following your treatment plan, your dentist or clinical dental technician will then take detailed measurements and impressions of your mouth, which will be sent to a dental lab to create your customised dentures.
- Fitting your dentures: once they’re ready, you’ll have a follow-up fitting appointment with your dentist or clinical dental technician, to make sure your dentures fit properly, are comfortable, and functional. If you need initial adjustments, they can be made at this stage.
- Follow-up care: you might need to make follow-up appointments with your dentist or denture clinic to make sure your dentures continue to fit well as you adjust to them. Your dentist or clinical dental technician can also give you advice on denture care and oral hygiene if you need it.
This process can happen over the span of several weeks, but it makes sure you receive a well-fitted and affordable solution to restore your confident smile and daily functions.
Who qualifies for NHS dentures?
To qualify for dentures through the NHS, you’ll first need to get registered with an NHS dentist.
Denture treatment can be given to anyone who has lost natural teeth, whether it’s due to age, dental conditions, or medical issues. There’s no specific age requirement, but eligibility usually depends on an NHS dentist’s clinical assessment of your dental health and needs.
If you’re not sure whether you’ll qualify or not, it’s a good idea to book an appointment with your local NHS dentist to get more information and guidance on the process.
In some cases, you may also be entitled to help with dental costs, depending on the treatment you need and your personal and financial circumstances.
How much do dentures cost on the NHS?
Through the NHS, denture treatments are covered under Band 3, which costs £319.10.
The NHS dental cost covers the provision of your dentures, as well as other denture alternatives like bridges or crowns.
If your dentures need repairs, you might not be charged if they can be fixed. However, if your dentures can’t be repaired, a new set of dentures will incur their own cost.
The NHS also offers free denture care in England for certain circumstances, such as for people who are under 18 or people who are receiving certain benefits.
Who’s entitled to free NHS dental care?
You may be entitled to free NHS dental care in England if any of the following apply to you:
- You’re under 18, or under 19 and in full-time education
- You’re pregnant or have had a baby in the last 12 months
- You’re staying in an NHS hospital and treated by a hospital dentist
- You’re an NHS hospital dental outpatient (though you may need to pay for dentures or bridges)
You could also be eligible if you or your partner (including a civil partner) receive:
- Income Support
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
- Universal Credit (and you meet the criteria).
Free dental care is also available if you or someone you live with receives:
- A valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate (if you get Child Tax Credits, Working Tax Credits with a disability element, and have an income of £15,276 or less)
- A valid HC2 certificate
NHS vs. private dentures
Choosing between NHS and private dentures will typically depend on your dental needs, budget, and preferences. NHS dentures are affordable and functional, ideal for those looking for a basic design which prioritises daily practicality.
While they’re excellent for restoring oral functions, they might have limited customisation options compared to private dentures.
On the other hand, private denture clinics – like Kevin Manners Denture Clinics – use high quality materials and offer better denture customisation options, for a more natural look and enhanced comfort.
The private denture process can also be faster, since there’s more flexibility when it comes to scheduling appointments.
To put it simply; NHS dentures give people an accessible option for essential dental care, while private dentures cater more to individuals who are looking for a more tailored solution, and who may want to pay more for a quality denture experience.
At the end of the day, both options can help restore your confidence and smile.
Quality denture care at Kevin Manners Denture Clinics
If you do decide to go with a private denture service, Kevin Manners Denture Clinics are ready to help!
We offer high-quality denture services that offer support, look natural, and feel great. Our incredible team will provide personalised care tailored to your needs, to make sure you get the best fit and functionality out of your dentures.
Whether you’re considering dentures for the first time, need a new set, or adjustments and repairs to your existing ones, we’re on-hand to help restore your smile and confidence.
Schedule a free denture consultation with us today to take your first step toward finding your perfect smile!