NHS v private dental inspection

[HoundPaws]

I am just a bit thrown after an NHS routine dental inspection today. The dentist took all of, what - 30 seconds looking in my mouth, the odd scrape and tap here and there before declaring that everything was fine and I paid my £18.50 and left. This is totally at odds with my previous experiences with a private dentist (different area before I moved) when I would think he took 20-30 mins, took an X- ray, carefully prodded my gums systematically and scored them for gum disease, then discussed everything thoroughly. Obviously this was more like £40. But I am left wondering a, is this normal for an NHS check and b, is this sufficient to ensure that my mouth is healthy? Thanks

I have only ever had a 5 minute version of your NHS one, with my private one (that I am fed up with). That costs me £20 a month

Doesn't sound anything like my NHS check up.
I had one a week or so ago and for £18.50 it included a scale and polish. I was probably in there around 15-20 minutes. It wasn't rushed and although my mouth is very healthy I am aware of a potential issue that is being monitored.

Hmm I am definitely uncomfortable with my check up then. Thank you for your input.

If you're in my area Hound (SE) I could recommend our practice.

I am now in the South West, but thank you for the offer Enrique, yours does sound good! I am actually considering driving back to my old dentist about 160 miles away!!