Question 1

How much does a private dentist cost in London?

Accepted Answer

A standard private dental check-up in London typically costs between £60 and £150. Common treatments range widely: teeth whitening from £250–£1,000, Invisalign from £2,500–£5,500, composite bonding from £150–£400 per tooth, veneers from £400–£1,200 per tooth, and dental implants from £2,000–£6,000 per implant. Costs vary by area — Central London practices tend to charge 30–50% more than outer boroughs.

Question 2

What should I look for when choosing a dentist?

Accepted Answer

Start by checking they're registered with the General Dental Council (GDC) — this is the minimum standard for any dentist in the UK. Beyond that, look at patient reviews, the range of treatments offered, pricing transparency, and whether their hours fit your schedule. If you need specialist treatment, check whether the dentist has specific qualifications or accreditations in that area. Pearlie lets you compare all of this side-by-side for verified clinics.

Question 3

How often should I visit the dentist?

Accepted Answer

The NHS recommends dental check-ups at intervals ranging from 3 months to 24 months, depending on your oral health. Most dentists advise a check-up every 6 to 12 months for adults. Regular visits help catch issues like decay, gum disease, and oral cancer early — when they're far easier and cheaper to treat.

Question 4

What's the difference between an NHS dentist and a private dentist?

Accepted Answer

NHS dentistry covers essential treatments at fixed Band 1–3 prices (£26.80–£306.10 in England), but availability is severely limited — millions of people in England struggle to get an NHS appointment, with the majority turning to private care. Private dentists offer faster access, more treatment options (especially cosmetic), longer appointments, and continuity of care, but at higher prices. Some clinics offer both NHS and private services.

Question 5

How do I find an emergency dentist near me?

Accepted Answer

For a dental emergency — severe toothache, a knocked-out tooth, swelling, or a broken tooth — call NHS 111 for urgent advice. If you need same-day treatment, many private clinics offer emergency appointments. Emergency consultations in London typically cost £50–£150. For life-threatening situations (heavy bleeding, difficulty breathing), call 999 or go to A&E.

Question 6

What happens during a dental check-up?

Accepted Answer

A standard check-up usually takes 20–30 minutes. Your dentist will examine your teeth, gums, and mouth for signs of decay, gum disease, and other issues. They may take X-rays to check for problems below the surface. Many dentists also include an oral cancer screening. You'll leave with a treatment plan if anything needs attention, and advice on maintaining your oral health.

Question 7

Can I find a dentist for nervous patients?

Accepted Answer

Yes — many dental practices in London specialise in treating nervous or anxious patients. Look for clinics that offer sedation dentistry (oral sedation or IV sedation), longer appointment times, and a patient-first approach. Some clinics on Pearlie specifically highlight their experience with dental anxiety. Don't let fear keep you from getting care — modern dentistry has come a long way.

Question 8

How much does Invisalign cost in London?

Accepted Answer

Invisalign in London typically costs between £2,500 and £5,500 depending on complexity. Invisalign Lite (for minor corrections) starts around £2,500, while Invisalign Comprehensive (for more complex cases) ranges from £3,500–£5,500. Many clinics offer 0% finance over 12–24 months. Treatment usually takes 6–18 months.

Question 9

Is Pearlie free to use?

Accepted Answer

Completely free. Pearlie is a free service for patients — there are no hidden fees, no subscription, and no obligation to book. You can compare private dentists, message clinics, and book appointments at no cost. Pearlie is funded by participating clinics, not by patients.

Question 10

What are the most common dental problems?

Accepted Answer

The most common dental issues are tooth decay (cavities), gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis), tooth sensitivity, and cracked or chipped teeth. In the UK, around 31% of adults have visible tooth decay, and nearly half of adults show signs of gum disease. Most of these are preventable with regular check-ups, good brushing habits, and limiting sugary foods and drinks.

Question 11

Can I find a dentist open on Saturdays?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many private dental clinics in London offer Saturday appointments, and some are open on Sundays. Weekend availability varies by area — clinics in busier areas like Canary Wharf, Clapham, and Shoreditch are more likely to offer weekend hours. You can specify your preferred days when using Pearlie and we'll prioritise clinics that match.

Question 12

How do I know if a dentist is qualified?

Accepted Answer

Every practising dentist in the UK must be registered with the General Dental Council (GDC). You can verify any dentist's registration at gdc-uk.org. Look for 'BDS' (Bachelor of Dental Surgery) or 'BChD' after their name — these are the standard UK dental qualifications. For specialist treatments, check for additional qualifications like MSc, PGDip, or membership of relevant specialist societies. All dentists on Pearlie are independently verified against the GDC register.

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Dental clinics in London

Wimpole Street Smile Clinic

The Modern Dentist

Tavistock Dental London

Chelsea Dental Clinic

London Dental Centre

Kai Dental

80 Kensington Dental Clinic

Grow Your Dental Practice

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