Why independent dentistry?

At Peterborough Dentists, our goal is simple – to provide high quality, affordable dentistry so our patients can enjoy the benefits of healthy teeth and gums, giving them the best chance of keeping their teeth for life.

We do this by offering independent dentistry, a service which has many advantages, but costs very little extra – and in some cases may even be cheaper than the NHS.

In short, independent dentistry is perfect for those who want a better standard of care, without having to pay a small fortune for it.

Some of the benefits of Independent Dentistry are listed below

We won’t tell you to come back for a check-up in 18 months to two years.

Oral cancer causes 1700 deaths a year in the UK and is the fastest growing cancer.  A dental examination is the first point of detection.  If caught early your survival rate increases from 50% to nearly 90%.

We won’t stop you from having your regular Scale and Polish.

Periodontal disease is one of the biggest causes of tooth loss. NHS dentists now get credited one Unit of Dental Activity whether they do a check-up with or without a cleaning.

We are not paid according to the number of NHS Dental Activity Units we produce.

NHS dentists receive 3 units of Dental Activity whether they do a lengthy root treatment to save a tooth or opt for a simple extraction.

We are not on a fixed monthly NHS Gross Income.

NHS dentists now need to budget their monthly material and laboratory expenses.

There has been a huge reduction of complex NHS treatments such as crowns, bridges and dentures. (A damning Parliamentary report on the new NHS Dental contract has indicated that NHS laboratory work has dropped by 50% during the first year of the contract).

The NHS Dental Contract penalises those who look after their teeth and rewards patients who neglect their teeth.

Whether you need one filling or several fillings you pay the same, greatly increased, NHS dental charge.

We believe in Continuity of Care.

Our team of dentists enjoy working at the practice.  Most of them have been with us for over five years.  This is a huge benefit for patients, as they are usually able to see the dentist they know and trust, year after year.

We will provide your Emergency Treatment.

As an Independent patient, in the case of a dental emergency, we will ensure that you have access to a dentist every day of the year, including public holidays.

NHS patients are required to phone a helpline who will asses whether you will be granted access to a NHS dentist who may not necessarily be in Peterborough.

Our services are easy on your pocket.

We offer a high quality service, but our treatments cost little more than the NHS.  In many cases, the difference is just a few pounds – a small price to pay for peace of mind and a confident smile.