Dental check-ups in London

At a check-up, the dentist looks at your teeth, gums and mouth. They look for early signs of decay, gum disease, mouth cancer and other problems. These are easier and cheaper to treat when they are found early.

What a check-up costs

Private: the London median published price for a private check-up is £55, from 609 practices. Half of all practices start between £40 and £75. Prices are usually higher in central London. Some practices include X-rays in the price and some charge for them separately, so ask.

NHS: a check-up is Band 1 and costs £27.90. Band 1 includes the examination, X-rays if needed, a scale and polish if it is clinically needed, and a treatment plan. It is the same price at every NHS practice in England. Some people get NHS dental care free, including under-18s. For how to find a practice, see our NHS dentists in London page.

For every treatment price in one place, see our London dental price list or our guide to how much a dentist costs in London.

How often you need one

There is no fixed rule of every 6 months. National guidance from NICE says adults should be seen every 3 to 24 months, and children every 3 to 12 months. Your dentist chooses the gap based on the health of your teeth and gums. If your mouth is healthy, the gap can be long.

Many people book a hygienist appointment at the same visit for a professional clean.

Browse dentists by area: North London, South London, East London, West London and Central London.

Written and reviewed by the Dentist-London.com Editorial team. Last reviewed 6 October 2026. Prices are advertised starting prices, not quotes. Confirm the cost with the practice. This is general information and does not replace advice from a dentist about your own teeth.