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Patient Guides8 min read

Choosing a Private Dentist in London: What You Get, What to Ask & What It Costs

Published: 18 April 2026·Updated: 28 April 2026

Why Patients Choose Private Dentistry in London

Private dentistry is not just about aesthetics. For many patients it is about time — specifically, the time a dentist spends with you. A standard NHS check-up is often scheduled in as little as 10–15 minutes. At our South Kensington clinic, new patient examinations are 45 minutes.


What Is Included in a Private Check-Up?

A thorough private new-patient examination at Adult Braces London covers:

  • Full dental charting (every tooth, every surface)
  • Gum health assessment with pocket measurements
  • Bite and jaw assessment
  • Soft tissue and oral cancer screening
  • Digital X-rays where clinically justified
  • Intra-oral camera photos — you see what we see on screen
  • A written treatment plan with itemised prices

NHS vs Private Dentistry — Key Differences

FeatureNHSPrivate

|---|---|---|

Appointment length10–20 min typical45 min new patient
Written planNot standardAlways provided
Cosmetic workNot coveredFull range available
Published prices onlineNoYes
Wait timeOften weeksUsually within days

What to Ask Before You Book

1. How long is the initial appointment?

2. Will I get a written treatment plan with prices?

3. Are your dentists GDC-registered?

4. Do you take intra-oral photos?

5. How do I contact the clinic between appointments?


How Often Should You Have a Check-Up?

For most healthy adults: every 6–12 months. If you have active gum disease, dental implants or active orthodontic treatment, your clinician will advise more frequent visits.

Book a private check-up · Meet the team

AL

Adult Braces London Team

Written by our GDC-registered dental team and verified for accuracy. This article reflects current clinical guidance for adult orthodontic treatment in the UK.

Ready to Start Your Treatment?

Book a £30, no-obligation consultation with our London dental team today.