The charges for NHS dental treatment are to increase from 1 April 2015 if approved by Tynwald. It is the first time the charges have increased since September 2010.
The increase across all three treatment charge bands is between 10 and 12%. Inflation on the Island between September 2010 and January 2015 was 14.3% (Retail Prices Index).
In addition to the increase in charges, dental examinations – where teeth are checked and no treatment or cleaning is undertaken – will now attract a band 1 charge. Both of these changes will bring the Island into line with those in England.
The charge bands are as follows:
| Band | 1 September 2010 | 1 April 2015 |
|---|---|---|
| 1 – Examination, diagnosis, treatment planning and maintenance | £16.50 | £18.50 |
| 2 – Treatment | £45.60 | £50.50 |
| 3 – Provision of appliances | £198.00 | £219.00 |
Minister for Health and Social Care, Howard Quayle MHK, said:
“The increase in charges is the first for almost five years and is actually slightly below the rise in inflation over that period. It brings charges into line with those in England and we will ensure that future charges are increased incrementally to maintain this link.
“We are also introducing a band 1 charge – that’s the lowest figure – for having a dental check-up where no other work is undertaken. Again this is in line with practice in England, upon which the Island’s regulations are based. Examinations take up the time of a qualified dentist and dental nurse, so it is appropriate that they attract a charge. However, charges for NHS examinations generally remain substantially lower than the charge for examinations in the private sector.
“The Department continues to encourage everyone to see a dentist regularly for a check-up. Although this will now attract a charge for those seeing an NHS dentist, prevention through regular check-ups is far more cost effective than treatment.
”It is important to emphasise that those who are exempt from dental charges, such as children under 16 and those receiving income support or Job Seeker’s Allowance, will continue to receive their examinations and treatment free of charge.”
