# Is a dental check-up free on the NHS?

Source: https://thelocaldentist.co.uk/answers/is-a-dental-check-up-free-on-the-nhs/
Updated: 2026-07-13

## Quick answer

Not for most adults in England — a check-up is a Band 1 course costing £27.90. In Wales a routine recall examination costs £25.00 under the fixed-fee system introduced in April 2026. NHS dental examinations are free for everyone in Scotland, and under-26s there get treatment free too. Check-ups are free in England if you are under 18, pregnant, or hold a qualifying exemption.

## Key facts

- England: £27.90 Band 1 charge for a check-up unless you are exempt
- Wales: £25.00 for a recall examination (£27.21 for a new patient assessment) — Wales replaced its band system with fixed care-package fees from April 2026
- Scotland: NHS dental examinations are free for everyone, and under-26s get treatment free too
- Northern Ireland: item-based charges — 80% of item cost, capped £384 per course
- Free in England for under-18s, pregnancy/maternity, HC2, qualifying benefits
- No free-at-60 rule for dentistry — that applies to prescriptions only

Editorial content from The Local Dentist — not clinical advice.