If you’re in pain and need an emergency dentist in Cardiff, you might wonder: Should I go NHS or private? Both options have pros and cons, depending on your budget, urgency, and treatment needs.

In this guide, we’ll compare:
You’ll know the best choice for your dental emergency at the end.
NHS vs Private Emergency Dentist: Key Differences
Here’s a quick comparison:
Factor | NHS Emergency Dentist | Private Emergency Dentist |
---|---|---|
Cost | Lower fixed fees (Band 1: £25.80, Band 2: £70.70) | Higher, varies by treatment (£80-£300+) |
Waiting Time | Often longer (especially weekends) | Same-day or next-day appointments |
Treatment Options | Basic emergency care only | More choices (white fillings, same-day crowns) |
Availability | Limited NHS slots in Cardiff | Flexible, often 24/7 |
Dentist Choice | Assigned by NHS system | Choose your preferred dentist |
When Should You Choose an NHS Emergency Dentist?
The NHS is a good option if:
✔ You’re on a tight budget (fees are fixed and lower).
✔ Your issue is urgent but not complex (e.g., mild toothache, lost filling).
✔ You qualify for free NHS dental care (children, pregnant women, or those on benefits).
How to Find an NHS Emergency Dentist in Cardiff?
- Call 111 for the nearest available clinic.
- Check the NHS Wales website for updates.
⚠️ Warning: Some NHS dentists have long waits, especially on weekends.

When Should You Choose a Private Emergency Dentist?
A private dentist is better if:
✔ You need fast treatment (same-day or next-day appointments).
✔ You want more advanced options (e.g., cosmetic repairs, same-day crowns).
✔ You prefer a specific dentist or clinic.
✔ You need out-of-hours care (many private clinics offer evenings/weekends).

Private Emergency Dentist Costs in Cardiff
- Consultation: £50-£100
- Extraction: £120-£250
- Root Canal: £200-£600
- Temporary Filling: £60-£120
Which is Better for Your Emergency?
Choose NHS If…
- You need basic, low-cost care.
- You can wait a few days for treatment.
Choose Private If…
- You need immediate relief (severe pain, broken tooth).
- You want better materials (e.g., tooth-coloured fillings).
- You need flexible appointment times (late evenings/weekends).
Need an Emergency Dentist in Cardiff Today?
Visit Emergency Dentist Cardiff Now
If you’re in severe pain, don’t wait—book an emergency dentist now. Private clinics often provide the fastest relief, but NHS care is cheaper if you can wait.
Need help now? Contact Emergency & Walk-in Dentist for same-day emergency dental care in Cardiff!