Paediatric Dentistry Costs in London

Children's dental check-ups and cleanings typically cost between £50 and £120 per visit. This usually includes examination, professional cleaning, oral hygiene instruction, fluoride treatment, and any necessary X-rays. Most dentists recommend these preventive visits every six months. NHS dental care is free for children under 18, though availability may be limited in some areas. Our practice offers family plans that can reduce these costs for regular preventive care.

While the amount of material used may be less for children's smaller teeth, paediatric dental treatments often require more time, patience, and specialised behavior management techniques. Additionally, paediatric dentists undergo 2-3 years of additional training beyond dental school. The child-friendly environment, specialised equipment, and expertise in treating young patients all contribute to the cost. However, investing in quality dental care early prevents more expensive treatments later.

Most dental insurance plans provide good coverage for children's preventive and basic dental care. Typically, preventive care (check-ups, cleanings, fluoride treatments, sealants) is covered at 80-100%, and basic procedures (fillings) at 70-80%. Some plans offer orthodontic benefits specifically for children. Additionally, many government programs provide dental coverage for children from low-income families. We can help verify your specific coverage and maximize your benefits.

Dental sealants typically cost £30-£60 per tooth and are usually applied to permanent molars as they erupt (around ages 6 and 12). Fluoride treatments range from £20-£40 per application and are typically recommended every 6 months. While these treatments represent an additional cost, they're highly effective at preventing cavities—sealants reduce decay by up to 80% in molars. Preventing a single cavity saves the £120-£300 cost of a filling, making these preventive measures cost-effective.

Space maintainers typically cost between £200 and £400 per appliance, depending on the type needed (fixed or removable) and the complexity of placement. While this represents an upfront cost, space maintainers prevent more expensive orthodontic treatment later by preserving the space for permanent teeth. Without a space maintainer, teeth may drift, causing alignment problems that could require £2,500-£5,500 in orthodontic treatment to correct.

Yes, several strategies can help manage paediatric dental costs: maintain consistent preventive care to avoid expensive treatments, consider dental discount plans or family membership programs (we offer one that includes children's preventive care at reduced rates), ask about applying sealants to prevent costly cavities, establish good oral hygiene habits early, limit sugary snacks and drinks, and consider NHS care where available. The most effective cost-saving strategy is prevention through good home care and regular check-ups.

Emergency dental visits for children typically cost between £100 and £300 for the examination and diagnosis, with additional costs for any necessary treatment. After-hours emergency care may include an additional fee of £50-£150. Many dental emergencies (like injuries or severe toothaches) require same-day treatment to prevent further complications and expense. Having a dental home where your child is an established patient often results in more affordable and accessible emergency care when needed.

We offer several financing options to make children's dental care affordable: our family membership plan provides preventive care and discounts on treatments for a low monthly fee, interest-free payment plans for qualifying treatments, third-party financing through healthcare credit providers, and the option to phase treatment over time to maximize insurance benefits. We also accept all major credit cards and offer a 5% courtesy discount for payment in full at time of service.