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Maternity exemption - dentists - Richmond

3 replies

ScarIettOHara · 05/01/2011 18:16

I have a large filling that needs to be replaced at the back of my mouth - but it's white... My private dentist has suggested an overlay but he quoted me £500 - which I can never afford.

I wondered if I could have this done with my maternity exemption card - but I really don't want a metal replacement as it's huge!

Does anyone know a good dentist who offers private and NHS treatments in the Richmond area that might help?

OP posts:

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Leilababyno1 · 05/01/2011 18:24

I live in East Sheen/Richmond and have used my maternity exemption card for dental treatment. I am not sure on the 'filling' issue though..but I had previously thought that pregnant women would automatically be offered white fillings as silver fillings pose a risk to pregnant women- due to high levels of mercury? You might be entitled, check it out though.

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Leilababyno1 · 05/01/2011 18:28

Just found this info online- hope it helps!

The Department of Health states that "it is now generally accepted that women should avoid unnecessary medical interventions during pregnancy in order to minimise any possible risks to the health of the foetus". This means that where possible, women should avoid having fillings when pregnant. As a precautionary measure silver (amalgam) fillings are definitely not recommended during pregnancy, even though there is no evidence that they could damage the foetus.

With a Maternity Exemption Certificate you can get white fillings through the NHS, except for on back teeth (white fillings are not considered hard-wearing enough). If you want to have white fillings on back teeth you will probably need to go private. The British Dental Health Foundation has more information about this.

For more information on all these matters call the British Dental Health Foundation's dental helpline on 0845 063 1188 between 9am and 5pm or contact them through their website. They provide free, impartial information and advice on all aspects of oral health and could advise you specifically about dental procedures and charges.

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ScarIettOHara · 05/01/2011 18:37

Thank you for that - I'll give the number a call tomorrow. I'd also seen that website but got the impression that some dentists are different to others... My private dentist definately won't offer NHS treatments but some do... It's confusing! :)