Post
by macliam » Wed Apr 05 2023 8:58am
The worse "phenomenon" is the inreasing numer of "NHS" dentists going private and either abandoning their patients or gradually pushing them towards private "care".
For example, in the old days, a clean and polish was part of the regular checkup procedure. But now I am advised to use the hygienist, who is, of course, private and whose charges are more like the band 2 treatment charge. Also, when a tooth that had been treated actually broke off, I was offered a bridge or an implant, but both privately. The only NHS option was a partial denture, which is very uncomfortable, but necessary before any further treatment can take place..... so probably 3 months use for £285.
A friend was told he needed an extraction after an abscess formed and he was prescribed 3 courses of antibiotics. The date suggested for the extraction was over 2 months away. He then enquired at a private dentist locally, who advised a cost of £105 for a simple extraction. But then, there was also a £25 registration fee and a £45 checkup necessary - and with a follow-up booked and paid for before treatment. Total cost, £220 to treat someone in pain - will that be card or cash, Sir?
Then, when he complained to his practice, his own dentist found he could do the extraction in the next week, as a private treatment at a cost of £90. Quelle surprise......
Just because I'm paranoid, it doesn't mean they're not out to get me