Finding an NHS dentist in London is one of the most common – and most frustrating – searches Londoners make. Demand far outstrips supply, and availability changes week to week.
This page tracks which London dental practices are currently accepting new NHS patients, updated regularly. If you’re struggling to find an NHS dentist, start here.
How to Register with an NHS Dentist
You don’t need to register in your local area – you can join any NHS practice that has space. Call the practice directly and ask if they’re taking new NHS patients. If they are, they’ll book you in and register you at your first appointment. You don’t need to prove your address or provide ID to access NHS dental care.
What if You Can’t Find an NHS Dentist?
If no practices near you are accepting new patients, you have three options. Contact your local Integrated Care Board (ICB), who are responsible for dental provision in your area. Call NHS 111, who can help find emergency and routine NHS dental access. Or check back here – availability changes regularly.
NHS Dental Charges 2025/26
NHS dental treatment in England is charged in three bands. Band 1 covers check-ups and diagnosis at £26.80. Band 2 covers fillings, extractions, and root canals at £73.50. Band 3 covers crowns, dentures, and bridges at £319.10. Some patients are exempt from charges entirely, including under-18s, pregnant women, and those on certain benefits. For a full comparison of NHS and private costs, see our London dental cost guide.
You can also browse dentists by area: North London, South London, East London, West London, and Central London.
2026 NHS Dental Updates
From 1 April 2026, NHS dental contract reforms changed how practices across London are funded and how many NHS slots they must provide. NHS dental charges for 2026/27 have also increased — Band 1, 2 and 3 prices are higher than last year. For a borough-by-borough breakdown of where access is hardest, see our London dental deserts guide.