Looking for a dentist in London? 10 quick questions to ask before booking
Picking the right dentist in London can be a lengthy and tricky process.
This will be easy with 10 quick questions that will help you make a good decision.
Choosing a dentist in London shouldn’t feel like decoding a sales brochure. With so many clinics around every corner — each promising “gentle care,” “affordable prices,” or “smile makeovers” — it’s hard to know who truly puts patients first. Seeking the right dentist in London is also daunting when you were happy with your old one. But you’ll want to start looking for a new one as your former dentist is retiring, taking a leave or moving away.
So, you want someone who listens, explains things clearly, and keeps your long-term oral health front and centre. London has hundreds of clinics—great news for choice, but it also means cutting through noise. Whether you’re booking your first visit in years, moving to a new area, or considering cosmetic work, these 10 quick questions will help. They’ll also protect you from rushed check-ups, unclear fees, and disappointing results.
1) Are the dentists GDC-registered, and what’s the CQC rating?
Every dentist in London must be registered with the General Dental Council (GDC). Clinics are also regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).
Ask: “Could you share the GDC numbers for the treating clinicians? What’s your latest CQC rating?”
What good looks like: Good clinics are transparent about this — they’ll even display GDC numbers and the Care Quality Commission (CQC) rating on their website or reception wall without hesitation.
Why it matters: It signals a safe, well-run practice with proper governance, training, and infection control.
2) Do you offer both NHS and private options—or just one?
London has a mix of NHS and private practices. Some clinics offer both or are fully private. It’s important to know which you’re visiting because pricing, waiting times, and treatment options can vary a lot.
Ask: “Is this treatment available under the NHS? If not, what are the private fees and why?”
What looks good: A good dentist in London will help you understand whether an NHS, private, or hybrid plan makes sense for your case. NHS dentistry covers essential treatments. Private dentistry offers quick access, modern materials, and cosmetic options (such as whitening or Invisalign).
3) Can I see a price list—and a written estimate before treatment?
Hidden costs can turn a simple filling into a financial surprise. Before agreeing to anything, ask for a full written estimate that breaks down all fees.
Ask: “Do you have a current fee guide, and will you provide a written treatment plan with costs?”
What looks good likes: A published price list, itemised estimates, and clarity on follow-up charges (e.g., X-rays, hygienist visits, emergency call-outs).
Tip: If you’re comparing more than one dentist in London, line up estimates side by side—like-for-like.
4) How long are check-ups and consultation slots?
If your appointment feels rushed, key problems can be missed. New patient consultations should last 20–30 minutes, allowing time for questions, medical history, and a thorough oral health check.
Ask: “How long is a new patient exam? Does it include X-rays, gum charting, and an oral cancer screen?”
What looks good: 20–30 minutes for a new patient consult, enough time for history, exam, and Q&A. The right dentist in London won’t rush you out the door.
5) Who will actually carry out my treatment—and what’s their experience?
For routine cleaning or fillings, any general dentist is fine. But for complex work — implants, root canals, or Invisalign — you’ll want someone with specific experience.
Ask: “Who’s treating me? Do they have additional training or a specialist referral pathway?”
What looks good: The best clinics will show before-and-after cases (anonymised, of course), photos, success rates discussed sensibly, and a willingness to refer to specialists when it’s in your best interest.
6) Do you provide emergency appointments, and what’s the process?
A toothache never waits for a convenient time. That’s why it’s smart to ask about emergency care before you need it.
Ask: “If I have an emergency, how soon can you see me, and what’s the typical cost?”
What looks good: A reliable emergency dentist in London offers same-day or next-day appointments, even on weekends. They’ll also explain what’s covered — from temporary fillings to antibiotics — and where to go after hours if the clinic is closed.
7) What technology and materials do you use for the treatment?
Technology completes modern dentistry to offer precision and comfort in dental treatment. Advanced tools (such as digital scanners, intraoral cameras, and low-radiation X-rays) make diagnosis faster and safer.
Ask: “Do you use digital X-rays, intraoral scanners, or photographs for treatment? What materials are used for fillings/crowns?”
What looks good: Clinics use technology to provide better long-term results. It is helpful in Invisalign or dental implants accuracy, reduces errors and re-visits.
8) How do you approach prevention and hygiene?
Good oral health isn’t just about fixing problems — it’s about preventing them.
Ask: “What’s your approach to gum health, hygienist visits, and home-care coaching?”
What good looks like: Top clinics personalise prevention plans based on your risk level (diet, smoking, grinding, medical conditions), regular hygiene appointments, and bite-sized advice you can actually follow. They’ll talk about flossing, fluoride, and how often to visit the dentist. Any experienced dentist in London will tell you that prevention saves you money and discomfort.
9) Do you offer finance, payment plans, or membership?
Cosmetic works can add to dental costs. Payment plans make it easier to spread costs without interest.
Ask: “Are there 0% finance options? Do you have a membership plan that includes check-ups, hygienist, or X-rays?”
What looks good: A fair dentist in London will explain the total price — not just the monthly cost — so you know what you’re signing up for. Look for flexible terms and no hidden admin fees.
10) Can I see reviews, before-and-after photos, and written consent forms?
In an age of online feedback, reputation says a lot. Check Google Reviews, the clinic’s own website, and independent platforms (like WhatClinic or Trustpilot).
Ask: “Could I see anonymised case photos similar to my situation and recent reviews?”
What looks good: Realistic outcomes, not miracle claims. Consent documents that outline risks, alternatives, and likely maintenance. The best dentist in London will never pressure you to commit on the spot.
Quick comparison: NHS vs private in London
NHS dentist (London)
- Fixed bands for many treatments; usually good value.
- May have waiting lists; fewer cosmetic options.
- Great for routine care, check-ups, and essential treatment.
Private dentist (London)
- Choice of materials and cosmetic options (Invisalign, whitening, or ceramic restorations).
- Often, longer appointment times and more flexible scheduling are available.
- Costs vary—get written plans to compare fairly.
Many patients use both: NHS for routine essentials, and private for cosmetic or time-sensitive work. A patient-centred dentist in London will help you weigh the pros and cons without bias.
Red flags (you must avoid)
- No GDC numbers or reluctance to share CQC details.
- Unclear pricing or no written estimates.
- Pressure to book your visit today.
- Short consults that skip X-rays or gum checks.
- Promising unrealistic results (implants) without discussing the plan, risks or after care.
- Poor aftercare information—no follow-up plan or contact point.
Handy script you can use on the phone (or email)
- “Are your dentists GDC-registered, and what’s your latest CQC rating?”
- “Do you offer NHS and private treatment? What are typical wait times?”
- “Could you email a fee guide and confirm if the new patient exam includes X-rays?”
- “If I needed an emergency appointment, how quickly could you see me?”
- “For Invisalign or implants, who leads the case, and how many do they handle per year?”
- “Do you offer 0% finance or a membership plan?”
- “Can I see before-and-after case photos and recent reviews?”
- “What’s your approach to hygiene and preventive care?”
- “How long are your check-ups?”
- “Will I receive a written treatment plan with options and risks?”
Copy, paste, and tweak. A good dentist in London will answer these without fuss.
Booking tips (so you don’t pay twice)
- Start with the diagnostic basics. A thorough exam (with X-rays if clinically needed) prevents missed problems and repeat visits.
- Compare like-for-like. Two plans might look different but achieve the same goal. Ask for explanations in plain English.
- Ask about guarantees. Some treatments include time-bound guarantees if you attend check-ups and follow hygiene advice.
- Plan the journey. London travel can be a deal-breaker—choose a clinic close to home, work, or a Tube line you actually use.
- Book at a quiet time. Mid-mornings or early afternoons can be calmer; you’ll feel less rushed and more able to ask questions.
Why does taking time to choose right matter?
Your relationship with a dentist in London is long-term. You’re not just paying for a filling or a polish — you’re investing in someone who’ll keep your mouth healthy for years. When you ask the right questions upfront, you avoid rushed decisions and build trust from day one.