How to find an NHS dentist after you move
You can contact any NHS dentist and ask for an appointment. Places are short in many areas, so start looking soon after you move and expect a waiting list.
- When
- In the first few weeks after you move
- How long
- About 15 minutes, plus phone calls
- Cost
- Free to look. NHS treatment has set charges unless you're exempt.
What you'll need
- Your new postcode
- A list of a few practices to try
What to do
Search for practices near you
Use the NHS "Find a dentist" search with your new postcode.
Ring round and ask for NHS appointments
Many practices do both NHS and private work, so say you want an NHS appointment. Ask whether they have a waiting list and how long it is.
Ask about waiting lists
You may be asked to join a list before you can be seen. Try more than one practice so you can compare the waits.
Stuck? Ask your integrated care board
This is the local NHS body that manages dental services in your area. It may be able to point you to a practice with space.
If you skip this
NHS places are scarce in many areas. Leave it until you have toothache and you may face a long wait or have to pay privately.
Where to do it
Questions people ask
- Do I register with a dentist like I do with a GP?
- Not in the same way. A practice may ask you to fill in a form at your first visit, but the NHS says that doesn't guarantee you NHS care there later.
- Can I stay with my old dentist?
- Yes, if you're happy to travel. You can contact any NHS dentist, wherever you live.
This is one job. There are about twenty more.
Tell us when and where you're moving and get the full list, in the order to do it.
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