How do I find an NHS dentist near me?

Use the NHS website (https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-dentist/) to search for a dentist near you. The site also provides information on which dental practices currently accept new patients, whether they offer urgent appointments, and how others have rated the service.

While this is a good starting point for finding a local dentist, people often tell us that these records are only sometimes kept updated, so you should contact the practice directly for more information. If the records are out of date, you should let the practice know. On 3 October 2025, the following dentists in Southend said they were accepting new patients, but the situation can change quickly:

Advanced Dental Aesthetics	1 Drewsteignton, Shoeburyness
Dentistry for You	288 Leigh Road, Leigh on Sea
Inspire Dental Eastwood (London Road)	459 London Road, Westcliff
Longford House	32 St Andrew's Road, Shoeburyness
Mr Lutterodt	117 West Road, Westcliff
ND Rankin	647 London Road, Westcliff
Parmar Dental Leigh on Sea	54 Hadleigh Road. Leigh on Sea
Smiles on Broadway	122 The Broadway, Southend
Thames Dental	1707 London Road. Leigh on Sea
Westcliff Dental Practice	340 London Road, Westcliff

You can also visit a dentist outside your local area if it's more convenient. You might prefer to see a dentist near where you work, for example. These dentists are 5 miles from central Southend:

Benfleet Dental Centre	8 Benfleet Road, Benfleet	Accepting children and adults, incl adults entitled to free dental care
Elder Tree Dental Practice, Canvey Island	6-8 Eldertree Road, Canvey Island, canvey island	Accepting children and adults, incl adults entitled to free dental care
Toothcare Ltd Canvey Island	90a High Street, Canvey Island	Accepting children under 17
Hockley Dental Care	45 Southend Road, Hockley	Accepting children under 17 and adults entitled to free dental care

How do I get an emergency NHS dentist appointment?

If you need immediate care for your teeth, you should:

• Ask your regular dentist whether they can offer an emergency appointment.

• Phone NHS 111, who can locate an urgent dental service.

• Visit A&E if you experience severe pain, heavy bleeding, or face, mouth or teeth injuries.

Can my dentist "de-register" me?

Unlike GP services, you are not "registered" with an NHS dentist for ongoing care. If you are accepted by an NHS dentist, they must complete any course of treatment needed when you are examined. Things like fillings are guaranteed for 12 months. Once a course of treatment is completed, the dentist does not have to see you again.

Do I need 6 monthly check-ups?

As well as examining your mouth and teeth, your dentist should ask about things like your overall health, diet, smoking, alcohol and dental hygiene. If you are fit and healthy, and look after your teeth, you may only need a check-up every 12 months. Seeing your dentist regularly does mean that you are more likely to be able to book a check-up in the future or get any treatment you need.