If you are looking for a dentist in Croydon, one of the first questions you will face is: “Do you want to be seen as an NHS or Private patient?”
For many patients, the difference isn’t entirely clear. Is it just about the price? Is the quality of care different?
At Croydon Dental Practice, we are in the unique position of offering both NHS and Private dental care under one roof at our Lower Addiscombe Road clinic.1 This means we can give you an honest, unbiased comparison to help you decide which route is best for you and your family.
Here is a simple guide to the key differences between the two services.
1. The Core Philosophy: “Health” vs. “Choice”
The biggest difference lies in what the treatment is designed to achieve.
- NHS Dentistry is designed to provide treatment that is clinically necessary to keep your mouth healthy and pain-free.2 It is functional. If you have a hole in a tooth, the NHS will fund a filling to fix it.3
+1 - Private Dentistry focuses on health + aesthetics + choice. It allows you to choose treatments that make your teeth look better, not just function better. It also offers a wider range of materials and techniques.4
2. Materials: Silver vs. White Fillings
This is the most common practical difference patients notice.
- NHS: For back teeth (molars), the standard NHS material is usually amalgam (silver). It is strong, clinically safe, and effective, but it is dark in colour. White fillings are generally only available on the NHS for front teeth.
- Private: You have the choice of high-aesthetic composite (white) fillings for any tooth in your mouth. These are color-matched to your natural enamel so they are virtually invisible.5
3. Appointment Length and Time
Time is a major factor in the cost difference.
- NHS: Because NHS funding is limited, appointment slots are often shorter. The focus is on efficiency—diagnosing the problem and fixing it.
- Private: Private appointments are generally longer.6 This gives your dentist more time to:
- Discuss your cosmetic goals.
- Explain complex treatment options in depth.
- Use slower, gentler techniques (ideal for nervous patients).
- Provide a more thorough hygiene clean.
4. Availability and Waiting Times
- NHS: Due to high demand across the UK, there can sometimes be a waiting list for new NHS patient registrations or routine appointments.
- Private: We can usually see private patients much sooner.7 We offer flexible appointment slots, including evenings and Saturdays, to fit around your work schedule in Croydon.8
+1
5. Treatment Options (Cosmetic & Specialist)
Some treatments are simply not available on the NHS because they are considered “cosmetic” rather than “essential.”
Typically available ONLY Privately:
- Teeth Whitening: Not funded by the NHS.
- Dental Implants: The NHS usually covers dentures or bridges for missing teeth. Implants are a private option.
- Orthodontics for Adults: NHS braces are usually reserved for children with severe dental needs. Adults wanting straight teeth (e.g., Invisalign) must go private.
- Hygienist Cleaning: While an NHS check-up includes a basic scale if clinically necessary, a dedicated “Air Polish” or cosmetic stain removal session is a private service.
6. The “Hybrid” Option (Mix and Match)
Did you know you don’t have to choose just one?
At Croydon Dental Practice, we offer flexibility. You can be a registered NHS patient for your regular check-ups to maintain your health, but pay privately for specific treatments—like a white filling, a hygiene session, or teeth whitening.
We believe in transparency. Your dentist will always provide you with a written treatment plan showing the NHS cost and the Private alternative so you can make an informed choice.
Summary Comparison
| Feature | NHS Dentistry | Private Dentistry |
| Primary Goal | Clinical Necessity (Health) | Health & Aesthetics |
| Fillings | Amalgam (Silver) on back teeth | White (Composite) on any tooth |
| Crowns | Standard Functional Materials | High-Aesthetic Porcelain/Ceramic |
| Cleaning | Basic Scale (if needed) | Dedicated Hygiene & Stain Removal |
| Wait Times | Can be longer | Priority / Flexible Appointments |
| Cost | Fixed Government Bands | Fee per Item |
Which is Right for You?
- Choose NHS if: You want affordable, functional care to keep your teeth healthy and don’t mind silver fillings or standard materials.
- Choose Private if: You want cosmetic results (white fillings/straightening), flexible appointment times, or are a nervous patient who needs extra time.
Want to discuss your options?
We are accepting new patients! Call our friendly team to find out our current NHS capacity or to book a private consultation.
📞 020 8656 6959
📍 202 Lower Addiscombe Rd, Croydon, CR0 7AB
📅 View our Price List Here