How to find a NHS dentist
There is no need to register with a dentist in the same way as with a GP because you are not bound to a catchment area.
Simply find a dental practice that's convenient for you, whether it's near your home or work, and phone them to see if there are any appointments available.
If you do not have a regular dental practice or are new to the area, you can search for an NHS dentist near you.
Dental practices won't always have the capacity to take on new NHS patients. You may have to join a waiting list, look for a different dentist who is taking on new NHS patients, or be seen privately.
Once you find a dental practice, you may have to fill in a registration form at your first visit, which is purely to add you to their patient database. However, that does not mean you have guaranteed access to an NHS dental appointment in the future.
Alternatively patients can contact HWLincs on 01205 820892 or the Lincolnshire Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) on 0845 602 4384. They provide confidential advice and support to patients, carers and relatives and can help by providing information about other dental practices who are accepting new NHS patients.
Understanding NHS dental charges
For information on NHS dental charges visit the NHS website.
Dental emergency and out of hours care
If you need urgent treatment, please contact your usual dental practice, as they may be able to see you or direct you to an urgent dental care service. If you do not have a regular dentist, contact NHS 111 for advice on where you can get urgent care.
Do not contact your GP, as they will not be able to offer urgent or emergency dental care.
Dental treatment for people with special needs
Some dentists may be able to treat people with special needs in their surgery. However, some people may not be able to get to their dental practice because of a disability or medical condition. In this case, the dentist should refer the patient to a more specialised dental service. Ask your dentist what is needed for a referral and if it is suitable in your case.
Specialised dental services are provided by the Special Care Dentistry Service Lincolnshire. Community dental services are available in a number of locations to ensure everyone can have access to dental health. These include specialist health centres and mobile clinics, as well as home visits or visits in nursing and care homes.
Some hospitals or health centres also help people who need specialist care and may be able to offer treatment under sedation or general anaesthetic.
The Special Care Dentistry Service in Lincolnshire is largely a ‘referral only’ service providing high quality care and treatment for patients that are resident including homeless and socially excluded groups, within the county of Lincolnshire (excluding north and north-east Lincolnshire) that meet the criteria.
For patients who meet the criteria they offer the following services:
- Children and adults with additional needs
- Domiciliary visits (home visits)
- General anaesthetic
- Plus size
- Sedation
Referrals are taken from general dental practitioners and health and social care professionals. Self-referrals are also welcome for some services. To see the full criteria please see this leaflet or visit Community Dental Services.
General information about dental treatment for people with special needs is available on the NHS website.