Hello, I have got

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Hello,
I have got one of my tooth root canalled. That was four years ago. I had pain recently and the XRay revealed that there is an infection. I consulted a NHS dentist. He said I have to consult a ‘root canal repairing’ specialist and the charge would be approximately £350. He was not aware if I have to additionally pay for the crown. I followed the dentist’s suggestion (I have no other option) and taken an appointment with the specialist next week.
However, I notice that NHS dentistry charges only for cosmetic surgery. My case does not come under cosmetic. So, why am I asked to pay outside the NHS bands? Is the dentist right that he is charging as a private treatment?

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Asked on 24/10/2013 12:00 am
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Private answer

Dear Rajesh, Five-year survival rates for root-canal treated molars is about 85%, you unfortunately are in the 15% that don't survive for five years.
Re-treatment is generally considered specialist treatment, ie beyond the skill-set of the average dentist. I'm afraid the charge of £350 will not include the crown. You could of course have the tooth extracted and see how you get on with the gap. A denture or bridge to replace the tooth would cost around £200 within the NHS system.

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Posted by Dental Professional (Questions: 0, Answers: 1475)
Answered on 06/11/2013 12:00 am
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Your NHS dentist has an obligation to carry out all necessary treatment for standard NHS fees however if the complexity of treatment required is beyond their skills then they should refer you to a specialist
It should be possible to find an NHS specialist at a teaching hospital or with what used to be called the PCT please ask your dentist or local health authority for details of who holds this contract

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Posted by Dental Professional (Questions: 0, Answers: 1475)
Answered on 05/11/2013 12:00 am
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