A Postcard To Get Your Teeth Into...

NHS Suffolk is delivering more than 50 thousand postcards to households in the Suffolk Coastal district.

It's to send a message that everyone can get to an NHS dentist.

They'll be dropping onto doormats over the next few weeks, reminding people to take good care of their teeth.

With more than 110 dental surgeries across the county the message is that everyone can get to one.  They also set out a clear and simple explanation of the price bands for treatment, so locals need not worry about the potential cost.

Clare Banyard, head of primary care at NHS Suffolk, said: “Our message is loud and clear – you can get an NHS dentist in Suffolk. We’re making it easier for people to have regular check-ups at local dentists’ surgeries. Problems with your teeth can then be detected at an early stage.”

Treatment is free for those aged under 18, while information about additional cost exemptions is available at www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk.

For those not exempt from payment, treatment is divided into three bands with set prices starting from £16.50.

Band 1 course of treatment = £16.50
This covers an examination, diagnosis (e.g. X-rays), advice on how to prevent future problems, a scale and polish if needed and application of fluoride varnish or fissure sealants. If you require urgent care, even if your urgent treatment needs more than one appointment to complete, you will only need to pay one Band 1 charge.

Band 2 course of treatment = £45.60
This includes everything listed in Band 1 above, plus any further treatment such as fillings, root canal work of if your dentist needs to take out one or more of your teeth.

Band 3 course of treatment = £198.00
This covers everything listed in Bands 1 and 2 above, plus crowns, dentures or bridges.

You can find your nearest dentist by calling the Patient Advice and Liaison Service, on 0800 389 6819.