Choosing a dentist and obtaining a second opinion in London

Katerina Galkina · EN · 07/10/2026

Define the task

A general dentist provides examinations, fillings and initial assessment. For complex care, ask whether a specialist is appropriate and which dental field matches the problem. A personal recommendation can start a search but does not establish qualifications.

Check registration through the GDC ↗. If a dentist advertises as a specialist, check the relevant specialist list: dental registration and entitlement to use a specialist title are different.

Compare what the appointment includes

Before booking, request examination, imaging and written-plan fees. Ask about consultation language, appointment length, support for anxiety and access to follow-up. Establish whether this is an NHS or private appointment; a practice can provide both.

Bring previous images, prescriptions and your medicine list. Ask about the diagnosis, urgency, alternatives and consequences of observation without immediate intervention.

Seeking a second opinion

Before irreversible or expensive care, another assessment with copies of existing investigations can be useful. Define the question: can the tooth be saved, is the proposed extent necessary, or why do options differ?

A second opinion is a separate appointment and may carry a fee. It does not oblige the new dentist to follow the original plan. When opinions differ, ask about the clinical reasons rather than automatically choosing the cheapest estimate.

Agree payment and follow-up

Obtain staged costs, possible additional charges and the process for agreeing changes. England's NHS uses official charging categories ↗; private prices are set by the practice.

Avoid paying for extensive treatment solely because of a discount before assessment is complete. Keep the plan and receipts, and establish who helps with pain or complications between visits. Travel convenience and review access matter for ongoing treatment.