Dental implants can help give you back your smile.
Since they function, feel and look just like your natural teeth, dental implants are a popular solution for missing or damaged teeth.
But dental implants aren’t exactly affordable in the UK and it’s not easy to get them on the NHS.
When it comes to qualifying for implants on the NHS, the specifics can vary due to the differing local NHS Foundation Trusts. But, to get a general idea, let’s take a look at the criteria you need to meet based on the national guidelines. Plus, the cost-effective alternatives available if you’re not eligible.
What are dental implants?
A dental implant replaces both a tooth and its root. Getting dental implants usually involves two separate procedures. During the first procedure a screw, typically made from titanium, is fitted into the jawbone which acts as the root. Time is then needed for the bone to grow around the implant. A second procedure is then performed to place an abutment on top of the implant to support the dental crown.
Dental implants are a popular alternative to dentures and dental bridges since they look natural, are easy to maintain and designed to be long-lasting.
Who is eligible for dental implants on the NHS?
Getting dental implants on the NHS is rare as the criteria is strict and the circumstances that qualify a person for this treatment are limited. In order to be considered for dental implants on the NHS, the reason for your lost teeth has to be one of the following:
- Trauma or a bad accident
- Mouth cancer
- Reconstructive surgery
- Unable to wear dentures
- Serious medical condition
- Oral health problem at birth
Further to fulfilling one of the criteria, several other factors are considered to determine suitability, including oral health and hygiene, general physical and mental health, smoking status and age.
Do you have to pay for dental implants on the NHS?
Having your dental implants done on the NHS doesn’t guarantee a free procedure. Dentistry is an NHS service towards which you have to pay a contribution. The treatment you’re getting and the cost band that treatment is in determines the price.
How do you find out if you’re eligible for dental implants on the NHS?
To determine whether you’re able to get dental implants on the NHS, you need to speak to your dentist. Your dentist will carry out a clinical assessment, review your medical history and assess your suitability for implants.
Although you may be eligible, getting dental implants on the NHS can mean being put on a long waiting list. If you’d rather not wait and want your implants as soon as, you may need to choose an alternative option.
What if you’re not eligible for dental implants on the NHS?
Don’t meet the criteria? Or not up for waiting so long for your implants? An alternative regularly chosen is going abroad for the procedure.
Unparalleled expertise, cutting-edge tech, internationally accredited clinics and all-inclusive packages make Turkey a popular destination.
How much do dental implants cost in Turkey compared to the UK?
In the UK, the cost for a single dental implant is usually between £2000 - £2,500. Whereas, if you choose to travel to Turkey for the procedure, you can expect to pay as little as £450 per implant.
Turkey’s access to state-of-the-art equipment and skilled experts means dental implants are high-quality. Whilst lower labour costs and operational fees means treatment is more affordable for patients.
So, if you don’t meet the criteria for getting dental implants on the NHS or the time to wait is too long, we can provide a quality and cost-effective alternative.
Our dental specialists are some of the top in the country and our team of representatives look after you every step of the way. If you want to find out more about the dental implants process, give us a call today on +44 (0) 121 288 4552.