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Finding affordable private dentistry in difficult circumstances

dyst_2
Posts: 11 Forumite


I am on means tested benefits (so get free dental treatment) and a full time wheelchair user (so see my local Personal/Community Dental service on the NHS).
I had a root canal (in one of my first upper molars) done 6-7 years ago, which has been fine.
It may now be starting to fail. PDS have stated that they would just like to remove the tooth (which would be complicated due to my disabilities). The hospital dentist who I saw today said that they would write to my dentist to say that in their opinion I needed the root canal redone (as opposed to an apiecetomy or extraction), and that I would need referral to an endodontist for this.
However, they told me that I may have to go private to see an endodontist.
This concerns me as financially this will be difficult, and realistically few private dentists will treat people with severe disabilities.
Can I ask the PDS to refer me to an endodontist on the NHS if there is clinical need?
If not, what are good options for finding accessible private dentistry in an affordable manner?
I had a root canal (in one of my first upper molars) done 6-7 years ago, which has been fine.
It may now be starting to fail. PDS have stated that they would just like to remove the tooth (which would be complicated due to my disabilities). The hospital dentist who I saw today said that they would write to my dentist to say that in their opinion I needed the root canal redone (as opposed to an apiecetomy or extraction), and that I would need referral to an endodontist for this.
However, they told me that I may have to go private to see an endodontist.
This concerns me as financially this will be difficult, and realistically few private dentists will treat people with severe disabilities.
Can I ask the PDS to refer me to an endodontist on the NHS if there is clinical need?
If not, what are good options for finding accessible private dentistry in an affordable manner?
0
Comments
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Unfortunately no PCT that I know of has funded a specialist endodontist.
Your best bet is a dental hospital since no private endodontist I know of is set up for treatment for people who may have physical limitations which may need special equipment etc. Unfortunately redoing endodontics can be very time consuming hence expensive even without allowing for any additional limitations.
However the sucess rate for redoing endodontics is much lower than first time around , the waiting time for a dental hospital will be very long and private treatment will cost anything from £300 upwards for a single rooted tooth for a specialist so is an extraction really that bad an option?0 -
I would agree completely with the above post.
Did the hspital dentist discuss the financial implications of the referral to a specialist endodontist with you?
I've a feeling the hospital service is just involved in playing a game of 'keep our waiting list on target' by referring back all the referrals they get, and not actually doing anything!
Don't allow them to play tennis with you like this. I would imagine that your PDS dentist is acting completely correctly here given your circumstances, and the hospital should have done as requested. Or at least made sure that it's option was your preferred option, that you could afford it, and that it was possible.How to find a dentist.
1. Get recommendations from friends/family/neighbours/etc.
2. Once you have a short-list, VISIT the practices - dont just phone. Go on the pretext of getting a Practice Leaflet.
3. Assess the helpfulness of the staff and the level of the facilities.
4. Only book initial appointment when you find a place you are happy with.0
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