No free spaces. Endless waiting lists. It’s hard to get an appointment when you want one. Limited treatment options and choices. Rushed appointments leave a bad taste in dentistry.
We’ve all been there, and there’s no surprise why more and more patients are moving away from NHS dental care to private dentistry (well, that is the ones still left with a choice).
But while the idea of fast appointments, better treatment options, and dentists actually happy to see patients sounds appealing, for many, it can be a worrying and complicated jump, with fears around costs and giving up their NHS space indefinitely.
The truth? Switching to private dental care is simple – and it’s a choice you can make without ever having to give up your entitlement to free care or reduced costs.
Remember, you’re always in charge of your own healthcare – even if it is dental. Here’s our guide to making the move smoothly – without the stress.
Common fears and the truth of the situation
“I’ll lose my NHS dentist”
You can do both – it’s your choice. You can continue to have care with your NHS dentist, and at the same time, seek out private or even cosmetic care with a private dentist. You can always seek private care while waiting for space to free up on the NHS.
“It sounds like a lot of paperwork”
In reality, private practices can request records from your NHS dentist, or you can fill out a simple online form, and you’ll review your dental history records at your first private check-up. During your first check-up, we’ll be able to assess previous dental work in your mouth anyway.
“Private dentistry is expensive – I can’t afford it”
Initially, private dental care will feel like a big leap, but as you only need a check-up every six to twelve months and a hygiene appointment twice a year, these costs are easily forgotten once you get into the swing of paying more attention to your oral health (a practice not easily achieved with NHS dentistry). Private dental care also offers more flexible payment options, with many clinics, including ours, offering interest-free pay-as-you-go options for more expensive treatments. Monthly membership plans and schemes might also make affording private care easier.
“I’m going to be paying for the same standard of care”
NHS dentists are qualified and accomplished, but restrictions in this area of dentistry mean cheaper materials and rushed appointments. Going private means you can choose a clinic that resonates with you and an environment that goes beyond the sterile norm. Choose a clinic where you feel welcome, not pressured, and confident. You’ll be surprised by the difference this has in your overall attitude to dentistry.
Making the switch smoothly
- Step 1: Research and compare your options. Search for “private dentist near me” and start looking at reviews, credentials, team members, prices, payment options, and more. Choose a clinic that resonates with you and find one with prices that you can afford.
- Step 2: Book a free consultation with our team first to discuss your needs, explore your treatment options, learn our prices, meet us face-to-face and see if our practice is a good fit for you, before you commit.
- Step 3: Don’t worry too much about the paperwork. Your new dentist can contact your previous practice directly, or you can request that they do so, or you can even let us know what you prefer.
- Step 4: If you’re happy with the clinic, you can book your first check-up and begin to understand your needs. For example, are you looking for faster access to care, specialist treatments, help with missing teeth, or just general care? Let us know what you like at your own pace and at your own speed.
Benefits of going private
- Longer, unhurried appointments where you feel listened to.
- Access to treatments not offered on the NHS, from implants to advanced orthodontics.
- Greater flexibility with appointment times, including evenings and weekends.
- A more personalised, patient-first approach to your care.
- Multiple payment options, like dental finance.
- Access to a wide range of cosmetic treatments, like bonding, to improve your smile’s appearance.
Switching to a private dentist need not be complicated or stressful. It will be a switch you enjoy – and while you’re searching for a “dentist near me”, consider starting with Neyo Dental. With our highly rated reception team and specialist dentists, you’ll find the process straightforward, supportive and even empowering.
Join the practice, book an appointment or a consultation here, or start by browsing our fees.
