Am I exempt from charges?

 Under the NHS you could be entitled to free treatment or partial exemption if you are:

  • under 18 years of age.

  • aged under 19 and still in full time education.

  • an expectant mother or have a child under the age of one.

  • receiving income support, income based job seekers allowance or Pension Credit guarantee credit.

  • named on a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate.

If you are in receipt of any of these benefits you will need to show evidence to the reception staff before your treatment commences.

Please ask at reception if you are unsure.

I have had a mouth ulcer for a few weeks. What should I do?

You should arrange an appointment with your dentist if you have any sores, irritations, lumps or thick patches in your mouth, lip, or throat. During the appointment, we will carry out an oral cancer examination which is painless and quick during which we will check your face, neck, lips, and entire mouth.

Your rights and responsibilities.

You are entitled to:

  • a thorough examination of your mouth, teeth and gums  

  • a full explanation of your treatment options  

  • a written treatment plan (including costs)  

  • information about NHS charges displayed in the waiting room  

  • advice on how to keep your teeth and gums healthy  

  • information about this practice and the services available  

  • a care and treatment summary if you decide to transfer to another dentist

You are responsible for:

  • giving at least twenty-four hours notice if you have to cancel or change an appointment. We will not charge you for missed NHS appointments – but if you miss more than one appointment we may no longer be able to offer you more treatment. You will be charged for missing private appointments.  

  • following your dentist’s advice to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.  

  • paying your bill promptly.  

  • bringing proof of entitlement when claiming help with the cost of NHS treatment. If no proof is shown your eligibility will be checked.

  • Treating our staff with courtesy and respect – we may refuse to treat patients who are abusive or violent, who fail to pay their bills or refuse to cooperate during treatment. In this case we will inform the patient and NHS England..

Your dental records

Your dental records will remain confidential and secure. However from time to time we may need to release these to PCT or NHS Business Services Authority as part of our ongoing clinical review process. We will try and contact you before releasing your records to another organisation.

Please Note

At Oswald House Dental Practice, we take great care with all the Personal Data we hold, to ensure we comply with best professional practice and with the law. For a full copy of our Data Privacy Notice please see our noticeboards.