NHS dentistry & UC for self employed

MD1970

Hi, I am self employed and coning to the end of my first year so am still entitled to UC in months when my income is low. I last received a UC payment in July and have exceeded the income threshold for the last 2 months. I have lost a tooth crown and have been unable to get a clear answer as to whether I can get the replacement on the NHS (£320) or have to go private for £600+. 

Am I eligible for NHS treatment as long as I am eligible for UC or will I lose eligibility because I've had a few good months income wise?

Many thanks for any clarification...

itsthelittlethings

You can get NHS treatment as long as you are registered with an NHS dentist, no matter how much you earn. The question is whether you can get free NHS treatment, because you're on UC.

Even if you're eligible, if you can't find a NHS dentist taking on patients, you won't be able to get treated on the NHS.

Muttleythefrog

As above.... anyone is entitled to NHS dentistry and you may be entitled to free NHS dentistry... criteria is below quoted for the latter. But getting an NHS dentist is another matter... my wife tomorrow will pay £1350 private dental fees... there are no NHS dentists for hundreds of miles taking on patients. What treatments are available on the NHS is an issue I'm not sure about.

Universal Credit

If you’re getting Universal Credit, your entitlement to free NHS dental treatment depends on your earnings for the most recent assessment period. You’re entitled if your earnings during that period were:

• £435 or less
• £935 or less if your Universal Credit includes an element for either a child, or limited capability for work

‘Most recent assessment period’ means the assessment period that ended immediately before the date you claimed free NHS dental treatment. It runs for a calendar month.

If you claim Universal Credit as a couple, the earnings limit applies to the joint income of you and your partner.

https://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/help-nhs-dental-costs/free-nhs-dental-treatment

marcia_

 You can get NHS treatment and pay the appropriate band if you do not qualify for free treatment. Assuming you have an NHS dentist 

https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/dentists/how-much-will-i-pay-for-nhs-dental-treatment/