Choosing a Private Dentist in London: What You Get, What to Ask & What It Costs
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
| Feature | NHS | Private |
|---|---|---|
| Appointment length | 10–20 min typical | 45 min new patient |
| Written plan | Not standard | Always provided |
| Cosmetic work | Not covered | Full range available |
| Published prices online | No | Yes |
| Wait time | Often weeks | Usually 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.
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.
