Understanding the dental system
Overview
In the UK, dentistry can be provided on the NHS or privately. Children are treated for free under the NHS up until the age of 18, or whilst age 19 and in full time education. After this, NHS dentistry is free if you claim certain benefits. These benefits sometimes change so it is best to check this website.
Specialist dental services
While specialist dental services are available for children with particular needs, it's essential to highlight that not all autistic children will require these services. Many general dentists are highly skilled and capable of providing excellent care tailored to the needs of autistic children. They can often create a supportive and understanding environment that makes dental visits comfortable and successful. You may find this website helpful.
Requirements for a referral to specialist dental service
The decision to refer a child to a community specialist dental service depends on factors like local availability and specific criteria set by referral centres. Generally, a referral might be needed for:
-
Children with extensive dental disease needing significant dental treatment
-
Moderate to severe learning disabilities that affects the delivery of oral healthcare
-
Medical conditions affecting oral healthcare that complicate dental treatment
-
Physical disability affecting access to or use of facilities in general dental practice
-
Moderate to severe behavioural conditions including those managed with medications and psychological support to support those who are poorly controlled
-
Severe dental anxiety that prevents routine dental care
-
Looked after children with enhanced needs including social, behavioural, and medical needs
-
Severely medically compromised children whose medical conditions require specialised dental care
-
Oral developmental conditions such as cleft lip and palate
Just to note
A diagnosis of autism doesn’t automatically mean your child will be referred to specialist dental care. Referrers need to clearly show that the autistic child cannot receive dental care in a regular practice, including steps already taken to accommodate their needs. It's a good idea to discuss options with your dentist, as referrals may vary depending on where you live. Some community dental services also accept referrals from GPs, school nurses, or health visitors. By working closely with your dentist and exploring all available resources, you can ensure your child gets the right dental care.
What happens if I get a referral?
The way referrals work differs depending on which area you live in. Lots of the referrals made to specialist services come from general dentists. A general dentist is a family dentist who most people receive their dental care from. This often means that you need to visit a regular family dentist first, and they would then decide that a referral to specialist services is the most appropriate thing for your child. There is usually a waiting list to be seen after a referral has been made, and the length of time this takes depends on the urgency of the referral and the area that you live. Some areas have shorter waiting lists than others. When you are given an appointment, this will be for an assessment. It would be unusual for treatment to be completed on the day of the first appointment, as it is an important opportunity for your child to get to know the dentist, and the dentist to get to know your child.
Key messages
Watch again
Jump straight to what parents and early years professionals have said about going to the dentist.
