NHS dental charges….

Duggo

So I’m quite confused! I’ve now been advised I need three filling repairs, obviously band 2 treatment, but was also told I have gum disease and need to see a ‘therapist!’ (Their words, not mine. Assume they mean hygienist. ) For a gum clean.   I was always of the understanding that if a clean was deemed clinically necessary it was covered by band 2 treatment so why am I being asked to pay another £75 for a clean???

marcia_

Duggo said:

So I’m quite confused! I’ve now been advised I need three filling repairs, obviously band 2 treatment, but was also told I have gum disease and need to see a ‘therapist!’ (Their words, not mine. Assume they mean hygienist. ) For a gum clean.   I was always of the understanding that if a clean was deemed clinically necessary it was covered by band 2 treatment so why am I being asked to pay another £75 for a clean???

 Only scale and polish is a band 2 charge. Hygienist appointment is not which is why they push you to get it done to et money. I just said I couldn't afford it and haven't had it mentioned again https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/dentists/what-dental-services-are-available-on-the-nhs/#:~:text=Scale%20and%20polish&text=This%20can%20be%20provided%20by,%C2%A373.50)%20course%20of%20treatment.

Voyager2002

Duggo said:

So I’m quite confused! I’ve now been advised I need three filling repairs, obviously band 2 treatment, but was also told I have gum disease and need to see a ‘therapist!’ (Their words, not mine. Assume they mean hygienist. ) For a gum clean.   I was always of the understanding that if a clean was deemed clinically necessary it was covered by band 2 treatment so why am I being asked to pay another £75 for a clean???

Did they really say that you have gum disease? That is a serious (life-threatening) condition and requires specialist treatment that is beyond an ordinary high-street dentist. I had to pay more than £2000 for a course of treatment with a specialist. Depending on where you live, you might have the option of being referred to a dental hospital for free treatment there.

Undervalued

Duggo said:

So I’m quite confused! I’ve now been advised I need three filling repairs, obviously band 2 treatment, but was also told I have gum disease and need to see a ‘therapist!’ (Their words, not mine. Assume they mean hygienist. ) For a gum clean.   I was always of the understanding that if a clean was deemed clinically necessary it was covered by band 2 treatment so why am I being asked to pay another £75 for a clean???

That is my clear understanding too. You need to clarify exactly what the situation is and challenge any attempt to charge you privately for anything that should be covered under the NHS.

The fact that the practice will be making a loss out of your NHS treatment is not your problem and should in no way influence your treatment.

Also, I believe there there are "dental therapists" who are more highly qualified than a hygienist (but less than a dentist). As I understand it they can carry out certain treatments, such as basic fillings etc, that have been prescribed by a dentist.

Duggo

Yes, she definitely said it was gum disease, after measuring the pockets in my teeth.  It just seems a lot to pay on top of the treatment, and it’s not cosmetic, so I thought it should be covered by my band 2 treatment. To be honest I can’t afford both, so it just won’t get done. 😬

strawb_shortcake

Whilst we can't give medical advice the NHS definition of gum disease is:
Gum disease is where the gums become red, swollen and sore, and bleed. It's very common, but it's important to get it checked by a dentist.

A hygienist can give a deep clean and help your mouth become far healthier. £75 might be cheaper than not not looking after your teeth and gums 

brook2jack2

Duggo said:

So I’m quite confused! I’ve now been advised I need three filling repairs, obviously band 2 treatment, but was also told I have gum disease and need to see a ‘therapist!’ (Their words, not mine. Assume they mean hygienist. ) For a gum clean.   I was always of the understanding that if a clean was deemed clinically necessary it was covered by band 2 treatment so why am I being asked to pay another £75 for a clean???

A therapist can do check ups, fillings and scaling appointments on the NHS. 

If you have been diagnosed with gum disease, you are right it should be covered by you band two charge on the NHS. I suggest you email the practice enquiring why you have been given a quote for a private charge for treatment of gum disease which is included in a band two treatment. If the scale was for cosmetic reasons only ie to remove staining and tartar they can charge you privately . If you have gum disease (they should have called out numbers which relate to the health of your gums and 3s and 4s show gum disease ) then that should be covered by band two treatment. 

Duggo

There were definitely a few 3s called out.  I think I’ll try contacting the practice. Thanks brook2jack2