Free Treatment
Who Gets Free NHS Dental Treatment?
Several groups of people are entitled to free NHS dental treatment in England. Check below to see if you or your family qualify.
Groups Exempt from NHS Dental Charges
Under 18
All NHS dental treatment is free for under-18s
Under 19 in full-time education
Must be in qualifying full-time education
Pregnant women
Free during pregnancy and for 12 months after baby is born. Apply for a maternity exemption certificate (MatEx)
New mothers
Free for 12 months from the date your baby is born
NHS Low Income Scheme (HC2/HC3)
HC2 certificate = full help. HC3 = partial help. Apply via HC1 form
Income Support recipients
Show proof of benefit entitlement
Income-based JSA recipients
Jobseeker's Allowance (income-based, not contribution-based)
Income-related ESA recipients
Employment and Support Allowance (income-related)
Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
Must receive the Guarantee Credit element
Universal Credit (qualifying)
Earnings must be below the qualifying threshold (currently £435/month or £935 with child element)
NHS Tax Credit Exemption Certificate holders
If you receive certain tax credits and have a valid certificate
War pensioners
Free treatment for accepted war disablement conditions
How to Prove Your Exemption
When you attend your NHS dental appointment, you'll need to prove your exemption. What you need depends on your category:
- Under 18: Your date of birth is sufficient
- Pregnant / new mother: Maternity exemption certificate (MatEx) — ask your midwife or GP to help you apply
- Benefits: Bring your benefit award letter or entitlement notice
- Low income: HC2 or HC3 certificate
- Universal Credit: Your latest Universal Credit statement showing earnings below the threshold
The NHS Low Income Scheme
If you're on a low income but don't receive qualifying benefits, you may still get help with dental charges through the NHS Low Income Scheme:
- HC2 certificate: Entitles you to full help with NHS dental charges (free treatment)
- HC3 certificate: Entitles you to partial help (you pay a reduced amount)
To apply, fill in form HC1, available from Jobcentre Plus offices, NHS hospitals, or by calling 0300 330 1343. The form asks about your income, savings, and outgoings to assess your eligibility.
Penalty Charges for False Claims
If you claim free dental treatment when you're not entitled, you may face a penalty charge of up to 5 times the original NHS charge, plus the original charge itself. The NHS Business Services Authority carries out random checks on exemption claims.
If you're unsure whether you qualify, it's better to pay the charge and claim a refund later if you find you were entitled. You can claim a refund within 3 months using form FP57.
Refunds for Overpayment
If you paid for dental treatment but later discover you were exempt, you can claim a refund:
- Ask your dental practice for form FP57 at the time of treatment
- Submit the claim within 3 months of the treatment date
- Include proof of your exemption with the form
Not sure? The NHS website has an online tool to check if you qualify for help with health costs, including dental charges: Check your eligibility →
Last verified April 2026