Need a dentist - Private or NHS?

bingo_bango

I was eating a toffee sweet last night and managed to pull out a filling. I'm not in any pain, but I need to get this sorted (and have a check up as it's been a good few years since I last visited one:eek:).

Since I'm working and would have to pay 80% of the NHS fees anyway, is it a better idea to go private? I also need to get registered, so that has to be factored in as well. I'd be grateful for opinions on costs, and where to find a dentist willing to take me on in Belfast / Lisburn.

Toothsmith

The best thing to do is find yourself a GOOD dentist.

They do still exist on the NHS, although the system is trying to weed them out! In N.I. they still have the 'old' NHS system which is a little better than the system they have in England and Wales now, but I believe that's about to change soon.

Get recommendations from people for a good dentist, and see what you get, and why people are recommending particular people (Some people want a kind caring dentist, some people want a dentist to do a hollywood type rebuild, some want a 'cheap' dentist - everyone has different requirement).

When you get a shortlist, go and visit the places to get a feel for the place (Staff helpfulness, price guides standard of cleanliness etc).

Getting over the hurdle that you might be better off paying a bit more for decent dental care is a major step. Once you've realized that, then just spend a bit of time looking around for a place that will suit you.

You will get the very best dental care with a dentist who you can stick with over the long-term. That way, the dentist can get to know you and your mouth, and the sort of thing that works best for you.

It might be that you find an NHS practice that ticks all your boxes, but it's best to look at all options, and not rule out anything just yet.

leftieM

Nhs is waaaay cheaper than private and, from my limited experience, paying more does not guarantee quality. We use the Beechmount practice on the Falls Road. They still had places during the summer when we registered. We moved there from Stranmillis Dental Practice. I found the new practice was really professional and the dentist was excellent.

bingo_bango

Cheers Leftie. Beechview ARE still accepting NHS patients, but it will be after Christmas before I can get an apointment.

I tried the Royal School of Dentistry and they don't do a walk in service any more, so I still need to find someone to fill this hole. As it looks as if I'll be doing that privately, can anyone give me an idea of prices?

Edit: I now have a rough idea of private pricing, I just can't get anyone to take me... AAAAGGGHHHHH

Further edit: I have taken the step of going private, and I have an appointment on Thursday of this week. Says a lot for what dentists feel about NHS patients if I can get an appointment within a week privately, but not for several months if I go NHS.

Nomad25

There's a new dental surgery opened in Carryduff just recently and they were taking NHS patients - don't know anything about them. Saw it driving past.

If it's in your area, might be worth a go. HTH.

loryarr

I'm registered with the Dunmurry Dental Practice just accross the road from Tesco's they took me, my mum and daugther on NHS, might be worth a phone call.