Private vs NHS • emergencies • wait times
5 Reasons It’s Worth Going Private for an Emergency Dental Appointment
If you’re deciding between NHS and private dental care — especially when you’re in pain — this page explains the real, practical differences patients notice.
- GDC registered
- CQC registered
No-obligation consultation: £54 (x-ray included if needed)
Private care, explained simply
Private dentistry isn’t about luxury — it’s about time, clarity, and access when you need help. Here are five reasons patients choose to go private when they have a dental emergency.
5 reasons it’s worth going private for an emergency
1. Faster access and shorter waits
Private appointments are often available much sooner, helping you deal with pain or swelling without long delays. Same-day emergency appointments are offered when available — call 01922 624900.
2. Broader treatment options
Private care allows access to a wider range of treatments beyond basic urgent care, so we can talk through every sensible option.
3. Longer appointments
More time means a calmer assessment, a clear diagnosis, a better explanation, and proper planning.
4. Quality materials and technology
Private practices can use a wider range of materials and modern techniques for predictable, longer-lasting results.
5. Freedom to return to NHS care
Seeing a private dentist for an emergency doesn’t stop you continuing routine care with your NHS dentist.
Based in Great Barr
We’re easy to reach for patients across Birmingham and the West Midlands, with parking on site.
No-obligation consultation: £54 — includes a focused assessment and x-ray if required.
What our patients say
I've been going to this dentist for almost a year now initially it was just to clean my teeth and do regular check ups and I was really happy with how kind everyone was and the quality of the treatments. After a while I wanted to do teeth whitening but didn't know anything about it or the process. I had a consultation with them …
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I've been going to this dentist for almost a year now initially it was just to clean my teeth and do regular check ups and I was really happy with how kind everyone was and the quality of the treatments. After a while I wanted to do teeth whitening but didn't know anything about it or the process. I had a consultation with them and they ran through the treatment, cost and everything I needed to know. After a few weeks of using the gels my teeth were considerably whiter and I was receiving compliments from my family and friends on my smile. After a while they suggested I consider veneers for two pegs on the top of my teeth, they also do a monthly instalment and after a few weeks considering it I decided to do it and was very happy with the results. It looks very natural and matches my teeth perfectly and made me a lot more confident with my smile and was getting compliments from a lot of people shortly after getting it done. Would definitely recommend coming here everyone is very welcoming, friendly and professional and I've never had any complaints with any of the treatments
Hadn't been to dentist for years and felt apprehensive but had to go for an emergency extraction. No fuss-365 days per year service available-no criticism just good caring people at this dentist. Sound advice after listening carefully to me. Everything explained thoroughly and in detail.All options discussed. Don't feel embarras…
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Hadn't been to dentist for years and felt apprehensive but had to go for an emergency extraction. No fuss-365 days per year service available-no criticism just good caring people at this dentist. Sound advice after listening carefully to me. Everything explained thoroughly and in detail.All options discussed. Don't feel embarrassed or scared-this practice will treat you as if you are family-you will be fine! I have changed to The Dentist and wont look back. And no it didn't hurt.
I came to this dentist on the recommendation of a work colleague and some extra research.
I'm a really anxious person who is also neurodiverse, and after 10 years of not seeing a dentist, I had severe buildup on my teeth, inflamed, red gums and cavities. I was embarrassed to smile. I was embarrassed to have conversations with o…Read full review
I came to this dentist on the recommendation of a work colleague and some extra research.
I'm a really anxious person who is also neurodiverse, and after 10 years of not seeing a dentist, I had severe buildup on my teeth, inflamed, red gums and cavities. I was embarrassed to smile. I was embarrassed to have conversations with other people because I didn't want them to notice my teeth.
The whole team have been nothing but kind, welcoming, and understanding. They all really, really listened to me and my experience. They explained each step that needed to be taken, in detail, answered all of my questions really well, and ensured I wasn't in pain or anxious.
I was also able to use my own coping mechanisms (fidget rings, worry stones, hand fidgeting), and I wasn't judged. That's how it should be, and thank you for setting an example.
It's quiet and genuinely a really nice, calm atmosphere. And because it's a calm, quiet practice, it doesn't feel like you're on a timer.I didn't feel pressured by anyone for anything regarding treatment, and have been kindly but firmly re-educated on important aspects or oral health.
They will also send you plenty of reminders and confirmations, which has been super helpful for me to manage my time and prioritise myself and my teeth.
A huge thank you to Dr. Rikki, Dr. Anna, and the rest of the team who made me feel like it was possible to get my smile back. My confidence has increased tenfold, and I would do it all again (but hopefully not).
Why choose The Dentist, Great Barr?
Friendly, calm, clear care — with time to explain and help you decide.
Need help quickly?
Book online or call — we’ll guide you clearly.
Ready to talk it through?
Book online or call — we'll give you clear options, prices up front, and no pressure.
Send us a message
Tell us what you need and we'll get back to you. For urgent pain or swelling, please call 01922 624900.