UK NHS Band 3 treatment entitlements

westredd

I have just paid today for some UK NHS band 3 treatment to have a filling on 1 tooth and a crown on another.

I also have a wire internal retainer which is a separate thing (from when I had braces 6 years ago done at an Orthodontist clinic.)

In between the recent initial examination to find out the course of treatment I needed and having the treatment done for the crown and fillings my internal retainer bracket broke (nothing to do with the dentist treatment). I went back to my dentist and an Orthodontist that works there 2 time a week fixed it for me (without charge), and said that if it breaks again I should get the entire wire replaced.

Well the bracket broke again, My question is, am I entitled to get the whole wire replaced under the band 3 treatment I already paid for? They are quoting me an additional £200 - £300 to get it replaced. They would need to take impressions and send away to get a write made up. Anyone know? thanks

brook2jack

Once treatment has finished , no matter if you are an adult or a child , all orthodontic retainers have to be paid for privately. They are not available on the NHS.

In any case has general dentist cannot provide orthodontic treatment on the NHS , it is provided under a separate contract.

Anyone who has had a brace should budget for replacing retainers for life. See retainers in this link https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/orthodontics/treatments/

westredd

thanks for the info