# Are dental implants available on the NHS?

Source: https://thelocaldentist.co.uk/answers/are-dental-implants-available-on-the-nhs/
Updated: 2026-07-13

## Quick answer

Rarely. NHS dentistry funds implants only in exceptional clinical circumstances — for example after mouth cancer surgery or serious trauma — usually through hospital dental services rather than a high-street practice. For most patients with missing teeth, the NHS-funded alternative is a Band 3 bridge or denture, costing £332.10 in England.

## Key facts

- NHS implants are limited to exceptional clinical need, not routine tooth loss
- Typically provided via hospital dental services, not a general dental practice
- Standard NHS alternative: a bridge or denture under Band 3 (£332.10 in England)
- Private implants cost roughly £1,800–3,000 per tooth; £7,000–16,000 per arch for full-arch options
- Your NHS dentist can assess and refer you if there is a genuine clinical case
- Being told 'no' for NHS funding does not mean implants are the wrong treatment — just not NHS-funded for you

Editorial content from The Local Dentist — not clinical advice.