Updated 17 April 2026
NHS Dental Charges in Scotland 2026/27
Everyone in Scotland gets free NHS dental examinations. Treatment costs up to £384 maximum per course. Under-26s and exempt groups pay nothing at all.
EXAMINATIONS
Free
for everyone
TREATMENT COST
80%
of package value (max £384)
UNDER-26s
Free
all treatment and exams
Free dental care for under-26s in Scotland
Scotland's most generous dental policy: anyone under 26 registered with an NHS dental practice in Scotland receives entirely free NHS dental care, including both examinations and all treatment. This is significantly more generous than England's provision.
To benefit, you must be registered with an NHS dental practice in Scotland. If you are new to Scotland, registering with an NHS practice gives you access to this entitlement from the date of registration.
Note: this applies to under-26s. From the 26th birthday, standard adult charges apply (80% of package value, capped at £384), unless otherwise exempt.
Scotland vs England and Wales: comparison table
| Factor | Scotland | England | Wales |
|---|---|---|---|
| Check-up (exam only) | Free | £27.90 | Very low (50% of exam package) |
| Fillings | 80% of package, max £384 | £76.60 (Band 2) | 50% of package, max £384 |
| Crowns | 80% of package, max £384 | £332.10 (Band 3) | 50% of package, max £384 |
| Under-26 treatment | All free | Standard charges apply | Free exams only |
| Under-18 treatment | Free | Free | Free |
| Maximum charge per course | £384 | £332.10 | £384 |
| Emergency dental via 111 | NHS 24 (111) | NHS 111 | NHS 111 Wales |
Finding an NHS dentist in Scotland
Use NHS Inform Scotland (nhsinform.scot/care-support-and-rights/nhs-services/dental/) to find practices near you. If you cannot find one accepting new patients:
- Contact your local NHS board (Health Board) for information about commissioned access services
- Ask about the Public Dental Service in your area (provides safety-net care)
- Call NHS 24 on 111 for urgent dental problems