** Important Update For All Our Patients **
NHS dental services have recently undergone substantial modifications, which will come into effect on November 1st, 2023.
IT IS IMPORTANT TO NOTE THAT THESE CHANGES HAVE BEEN IMPLEMENTED BY THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT AND WILL IMPACT ALL NHS DENTAL PRACTICES, INCLUDING CHERRYTREE DENTAL PRACTICE.
We continue to operate as a combined NHS and private practice. If you are registered as an NHS patient, your status will remain unchanged.
1. Free dental examinations/check-ups will now be offered annually. In case of any dental issues between these annual check-ups, you will be scheduled for necessary treatment. However, for Cherrytree Dental Practice patients and those who prefer private care, 6-month check-ups will remain available.
2. Please be informed that the Scottish Government has significantly increased charges for NHS dental treatments in all NHS Dental Practices. This means that patients who are not exempt from dental charges will observe an increase in fees. Starting from November 1st, services such as basic fillings, X-rays, dentures, and extractions, which were previously more affordable, will become more expensive.
Patients responsible for payment will continue to cover 80% of treatment costs, while the NHS will contribute the remaining 20%. Exempt patients will continue to receive free NHS dental treatment. Please bring proof of your exemption to your appointments.
3. The range of treatments available under the NHS has been reduced, meaning that certain options that were previously available will now be offered only through private dental care.
4. Some treatments that were previously free of charge, such as denture repairs, will now incur a cost for the patient. These new costs may influence your choice of treatment.
5. As of November 1st, any unscheduled or emergency appointments will come with an associated fee. This is a new fee introduced by the Scottish Government. Non-exempt NHS patients will be required to pay this fee, regardless of the treatment received. We kindly ask for your understanding in this matter and appreciate your cooperation.
Please be aware that we kindly request payment for any treatment either in advance or on the day of the appointment. This practice is part of our standard payment policy. Any outstanding fees may be subject to additional administration charges.
If you require more information about these changes, please speak with our reception staff or your dentist.
If you have any concerns or comments regarding these changes, please understand that they have been mandated by the Scottish Government, and we had no control over them. Therefore, direct any comments to your local MSP/MP.
Thank you,
Cherrytree Dental Practice