Registering with an NHS dentist
Registering with a GP does not register you with a dentist. NHS inform says not every dentist takes new NHS patients, so ask when you first get in touch. You can search NHS inform's dental services directory (opens in a new tab), ask NHS Fife, or start with our dentists page of 17 dental practices in and around Dunfermline.
When a practice can take you, you give your name, address, date of birth and contact details, then get an appointment for an enhanced clinical examination. NHS inform says the practice may put you on a waiting list until that examination. You do not need to pay a deposit for an appointment to register. You can register your child at the same time, and from birth.
What NHS registration means
NHS inform says NHS patients do not pay their dentist a regular fee or retainer, and there is no charge for an examination. Your practice should discuss your treatment plan and costs before any work is carried out. Registration lasts for life unless you or the dentist withdraws it, and a dentist must give NHS patients at least three months' notice.
In pain and not registered
If you are not registered and have acute dental pain, NHS Fife says to call the Dental Advice Line on 01592 226555 (Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5.00pm). If you are registered, call your own practice. Outside normal hours, call NHS 24 on 111 whether or not you are registered. NHS Fife treats facial swelling or an abscess, bleeding and dental injuries as emergencies.
Questions people actually ask
I can't find a dentist taking NHS patients. What should I do?
Keep asking practices whether they can take you as an NHS patient, and contact NHS Fife. If you are in pain in the meantime, call NHS Fife's Dental Advice Line on 01592 226555 on weekdays, or NHS 24 on 111 outside those hours.
Do I pay for an NHS dental check-up in Scotland?
NHS inform says there is no charge for an examination for NHS patients. Treatment may have a charge, which your practice should discuss with you first.
When can I register my baby with a dentist?
As soon as they are born. NHS inform says you should register your child at the same time as yourself if you can.
Sources and last checked
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