FAQs

1. I already have a Dentist, but Alford is more convenient for me – can I sign-up?

Of course you can and we would be delighted to have you! Our third and final treatment room opened in October, so we currently have no waiting list. To register as a patient go to our become a patient page.

2. I’m currently on a Private dental plan – can I come back to the NHS?

Yes, every citizen of the UK is eligible for NHS dental care and we would be delighted if you want to become an NHS patient at our practice. You simply contact your plan provider to cancel the plan you have in place once you have had your new patient appointment and the NHS paperwork has been signed at that appointment.

3. If I have put my name down for an NHS place is that all I need to do to secure it?

No. You will need to come in to sign a NHS registration form and come in for a new patient appointment.

5. I work full time – do you offer flexible opening times?

We completely understand that it isn’t always easy to find time to go to the dentist, especially if you don’t work in Alford, so our main aim is to provide flexibility and convenience to our patients. We offer early morning, evening and Saturday appointments, so there should be an appointment time to suit everyone.

6. If I want private treatment (eg. white fillings on back teeth, teeth whitening, implants), do I have to become a private patient?

No. Being an NHS patient does not prevent you from having some “add on” private dental work. For example, you can be an NHS patient and decide to “add on” teeth whitening. You would pay for your teeth whitening privately but you would still have access to the full range of NHS services available. For a full list of the treatments we provide visit out what we offer page, some of which are available through the NHS and some which you can pay for privately. Our dentists are always happy to talk through all the treatment options & associated costs to ensure you get exactly what you want, within a budget that suits.

7. Is there free parking available?

Yes. There is free parking available both on street and in the large public car park which is just off the Main Street in Alford, next to the Transport Museum. This car park can be accessed by car from Watchmakers Lane or from the other side by turning off Montgarrie Road towards the Alford Golf Club. View on google maps.

8. All my children are under school age – should I register them?

Yes. Children’s teeth usually appear around 6 months of age. Children should be examined when these teeth appear. We participate in “Childsmile” and give advice to children and parents on brushing techniques and applying fluoride treatments to Children’s teeth. This is designed to give their teeth the best start in life. More information on this can be accessed from www.child-smile.org.uk/parents-and-carers/index.aspx

9. I wear dentures, should I still go to the Dentist?

Yes, your appointment will be used to check your existing dentures to ensure they fit properly and are comfortable. We will also assess the health of your mouth and check for oral cancer. If you would like new dentures or to consider dental implants, we would be happy to discuss this with you too.

10. Am I entitled to free dental care?

Free dental care is available to patients who are (or their partner is):

  • on Income Support;
  • on Income-related Employment and Support Allowance;
  • on an HC2 certificate;
  • on Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance;
  • on Pension Credit Guarantee Credit;
  • in receipt of a NHS Tax Credit Exemption Certificate;
  • below 18 years of age;
  • below 19 years of age and in full time education; or
  • pregnant or have given birth in the last 12 months
  • on Universal Credit.
You must show evidence of your eligibility for free NHS dental care at your appointments.

If none of the circumstances mentioned above apply to you, but you have difficulty paying NHS charges, you may qualify for help under the NHS Low Income Scheme. This is an income-related scheme which looks at your (and your partner’s) weekly requirements and income to calculate how much, if anything, you should pay towards your health costs. If you want to claim help under the Low Income Scheme, pick up form HC1 at Community Pharmacies, GP Practices, Citizens Advice Scotland Offices and Jobcentre Plus offices. Also available online at www.scotland.gov.uk/healthcosts to print off and complete, or on request by calling 0131 275 6386.