Dentist says I must pay privately for root canal

[huwmc3]

Hello -

Just back from my dentists, with a decision to make over my No7 lower molar (if that's the right number - rear one just in front of wisdom):

An old filling on top has been removed to reveal centre is 'pulpy' and nerve is dying (ouch), so requires a root canal. My NHS dentist, however, tells me that it is not possible to justify on the NHS as it is a "non vital" tooth, and that I need to book in with his private guys who will relieve me of £500 for the treatment, followed by an NHS crown to be fitted after - at the normal NHS price for a crown of around £200.

Please can anyone tell me if this is normal practice ? Obviously is feels very expensive compared to NHS pricing !

Thanks,
McP

 

[explosionsinthesky]

Hello -

Just back from my dentists, with a decision to make over my No7 lower molar (if that's the right number - rear one just in front of wisdom):

An old filling on top has been removed to reveal centre is 'pulpy' and nerve is dying (ouch), so requires a root canal. My NHS dentist, however, tells me that it is not possible to justify on the NHS as it is a "non vital" tooth, and that I need to book in with his private guys who will relieve me of £500 for the treatment, followed by an NHS crown to be fitted after - at the normal NHS price for a crown of around £200.

Please can anyone tell me if this is normal practice ? Obviously is feels very expensive compared to NHS pricing !

Thanks,
McP

No, that is not right and they are not allowed to do it. Report them if necessary

 

[gentledental]

Against the rules and regulations