# How much is an NHS dental check-up in 2026?

Source: https://thelocaldentist.co.uk/answers/how-much-is-an-nhs-dental-check-up/
Updated: 2026-07-13

## Quick answer

An NHS dental check-up in England costs £27.90 — the Band 1 charge for 2026/27. That covers the examination, X-rays if needed, and a scale and polish if clinically necessary. In Wales, a routine recall examination costs £25.00 under the fixed-fee system introduced in April 2026, and NHS dental examinations are free in Scotland.

## Key facts

- England: £27.90 (Band 1, 2026/27) — includes exam, X-rays, and scale & polish if clinically needed
- Wales: £25.00 for a recall examination (£27.21 for a new patient assessment) under the fixed-fee system from April 2026
- Scotland: NHS dental examinations are free for everyone, and under-26s get treatment free too, not just the exam
- Northern Ireland: you pay 80% of the item cost, capped at £384 per course
- Free in England if you are under 18, pregnant, or hold a qualifying exemption
- NHS charges are set nationally — no practice can charge more or less for NHS treatment

Editorial content from The Local Dentist — not clinical advice.