While the NHS offers free medical care to those who are studying here for more than six months (and their dependents), there are some medical expenses you will have to factor in to your budget. Here's what you need to know about dental expenses.
All NHS dental examinations in Scotland are free of charge. Take note--that's just NHS dental examinations. There are plenty of private dentists around which you would be expected to pay for. If you want a free exam, be sure you make it clear that you want NHS treatment. (Sometimes the same dentist will do both private and NHS treatment. Confusing, I know.)
An examination will NOT NECESSARILY include a cleaning. (We've heard rumors that some have gotten a free cleaning at their exam, but this is not standard.) It will definitely include a general check-up to see that all looks well and is healthy. A standard cleaning fee is around £10. An intensive cleaning might run you £25. If further work is needed, you will be informed and you would need to schedule an appointment which you would be required to pay for. Click here for a sampling of dental prices in Scotland.
In England exams are not free of charge. However, they're not terribly pricey. Click here for a regularly updated list of dental costs in England.
Exceptions exist, however, in both England and Scotland. All children under 18, for instance, receive free dental care. If you are pregnant or have had a baby in the last 12 months, you will also receive free care. There are lots of other exceptions too, but I don't think they would apply to folks like us who have no recourse to public funds.
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