Finding an NHS Dentist
There is a dentist helpline where your name can be added to the waiting list, this is 03330 063 300 – wait until the end of the recorded messages and then select option 3 to register for the waiting list or option 4 to speak to a member of the team.
Waiting times are lengthy and could be several years. We cannot quote times as it depends on the areas you can travel to (you can provide up to 3 areas).
When a dental practice has NHS vacancies, it contacts the waiting list and then it depends on:
(a) how long you have been on the list, and
(b) if you have nominated the area where the practice is situated.
It is worth checking every six months to ensure you are still on the list and the details they hold are up to date.
If you need emergency dental help in the meantime, you can call 0333 405 0290.
Urgent treatment centers are located in Truro and Bodmin, alternatively, you can email Smile Together. The helpline will triage you depending on an initial phone assessment, and they will help the dentist decide whether you need to be seen immediately or within 24 hours or can be booked later for an appointment.
An initial phone assessment will help the dentist decide whether you need to be seen immediately or within 24 hours or can be booked later for an appointment. Conditions needing immediate treatment might include:
- dental infection/fever/swelling, especially if it might affect the airway
- uncontrolled bleeding
- injury
If offered treatment it may not be local to you. Treatment is a one-off fixed cost per visit regardless of treatment.
For more information regarding dentists please see the NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Website.
Unfortunately, our only other advice is to regularly contact dentists in your area, as they individually receive an amount for NHS patients and some operate their own waiting list or may have availability at the time of your call. The following link takes you to a service finder on the NHS website that enables you to find local NHS dental services.
