NHS Eligibility - The University Dental and Implant Centre

Who can Receive NHS Dental Treatment at The Practice?

NHS dental treatment is only available to specific groups of people. All other patients are normally seen on a private basis.

NHS treatment is available to all students of the University of Birmingham and patients who are entitled to free NHS dental treatment, i.e., those who:

Have a valid HC2 Certificate
Are receiving income support, family credit, or jobseekers allowance
Are pregnant or have had a baby in the last 12 months
Are students under 19 years of age
Are children under 18 years

Registration for NHS Dental Care for Students of the University of Birmingham

If you fall into one of the categories above and are entitled to NHS dental care here, you must register with the University Dental Practice. All first year undergraduate students will be given an opportunity to register at the beginning of their first year during their medicals. All other students should register as soon as they commence their course. Failure to register for NHS dental care as a student may result in not having access to emergency dental care at the Practice. Students should also be aware that their registration lapses after fifteen months at which time they must re- register. A reminder will be sent to all students when their registration is about to expire.

Am I entitled to free dental treatment?

There are charges payable by patients even under the NHS. However, the following categories of patients do not need to pay for NHS treatment:

Those under 19 years of age
Those who have a valid HC2 certificate
Those who are receiving social security benefits
Ladies who are pregnant or have had a baby in the past twelve months

I am a student -- do I need to pay for NHS treatment?

Students who are 19 years of age or older do not automatically receive free dental NHS Dental Care. However, all students should apply for a HC2 Certificate through a HC1 form. You can pick up a form at the University Dental Practice or the Students Guild. The application process normally takes upto six weeks and is dependent upon your means. In our experience, we have found that most students who apply are successful. The HC2 Certificate also gives you free prescriptions and eye tests. It is only valid for six months and requires re-application after that time.

If you require dental care and have not got a HC2 certificate yet, you must pay for your NHS dental care. If you keep your receipts you can obtain a refund of your charges when you receive your certificate. The Advice Centre at the Guild of Students can give you further information.

Information on Private Dental Care.