In the UK, you are not automatically registered with an NHS dentist just by booking an appointment. Here’s how it works:

• NHS dental registration isn’t permanent like with a GP. You’re only considered an active patient while you’re receiving treatment or have seen the dentist recently.
• Booking a new patient appointment as an NHS patient does not guarantee long-term registration. You usually need to:
  1. Be seen by the dentist.
  2. Undergo an initial check-up or treatment.

After you’ve been seen, you’re generally considered “on the books” for NHS treatment but if you don’t attend for 1–2 years, we may not offer you NHS appointments.

✅ What to Do:

• Attend your first appointment — this is when you’ll be accepted as a patient (if the dentist is taking NHS patients).

🦷 NHS Dental Registration: Key Points

1. No Formal Registration System
   Unlike GP practices, dental practices do not have a formal patient registration system. You are considered a patient only while undergoing treatment. 
2. Booking an Appointment Does Not Equate to Registration
   Simply booking a new patient appointment does not automatically register you with the dental practice. You need to attend the appointment and undergo an initial examination or treatment to be considered a patient. 
3. NHS Number Usage
   Dental practices are encouraged to ask for your NHS number to accurately identify you and link your details to your oral health records. However, not having an NHS number does not prevent you from receiving treatment.

Official Guidance & Reality

1. “Taking on new NHS patients” means the practice is open to seeing new patients in principle, but:
   • Appointments may be limited or not immediately available.
   • You might be put on a waiting list, especially in high-demand areas.

NHS England confirms: “Dental practices are independent and manage their own patient lists. Being told a practice is taking on new NHS patients does not guarantee an appointment immediately.”
– Source: NHS England Guidance

3. You’re only accepted as a patient once you’ve been:
   • Seen by the dentist,
   • And begun treatment or had a check-up.

✅ What You Should Do

• Call the practice: Even if they say they’re taking new NHS patients, always ask:

“When is your next available NHS appointment for a new patient?”

• Ask to join a waiting list if there are no appointments right away.
• Check NHS.uk or call NHS 111 to find more options in your area.