17/11/2025
💬 Common Misconceptions About Dental Practices (Wales Edition) 🦷
Let’s clear a few things up 👇
🔹 “You’re part of the NHS, right?”
Nope! We’re independent businesses contracted by the NHS to provide care. Our building isn’t NHS owned, and our staff aren’t NHS employees.
🔹 “You make money from NHS charges.”
We don’t. These charges are set by the Welsh Government and deducted from our NHS contract. If you don’t pay, we don’t get paid.
🔹 “I want X treatment on the NHS.”
Only clinically necessary treatments are covered and even those are limited by what the Welsh Government funds. We don’t make the rules.
🔹 “Why can’t I have a check-up every 6 months?”
The recall system is set by the government. We follow a traffic light system based on your dental risk, not preference.
🔹 “I’ve been before, why won’t you see me now?”
If you haven’t attended in a while, you may no longer be classed as an NHS patient. That timeframe is also set by the Welsh Government.
🔹 “Dentists are greedy.”
Not true. Rising costs + tight NHS contracts = tough decisions. Some dentists give up NHS contracts just to keep their businesses afloat.
🔹 “Private care is too expensive.”
NHS fees are subsidised. Private fees reflect the actual cost of care - materials, time, training, compliance, etc.
🔹 “It’s cheaper abroad.”
But is it safer? UK dentists must meet strict safety, training, and inspection standards. Can you say the same for every clinic overseas?
💡 Your dental practice isn’t just a clinic, it’s a small business navigating government rules, rising costs, and a lot of misinformation.
Be kind. Ask questions. We’re here to help. 💙
