Thousands of young adults will be getting ready to start their newest adventure as university students over the next few weeks.

There will be lots of changes on the horizon for many, including moving out for the first time, remembering to stock up on cheap and cheerful meals and trying to keep on top of the laundry (which is harder thank you think).

But one life admin job some will be wanting to sort in case of an emergency will be signing up for a dentist.

Although students think this isn’t a priority, arranging dental care in case you have a raging toothache after fresher’s week might be one for the to-do list.

@studyplate How to get free dental care #studyplate #dental #advice #dentist #uk #student #uni #alevel #alevels ♬ original sound - studyplate

It won’t be surprising to learn that registering for an NHS dentist is proving difficult in some places but it’s always worth a try.

The Save the Student website says: “You'll have to register with a local dentist practice, just like you would with a GP. However, make sure you know whether you're signing up as a private or NHS patient.

“Some dental practices might have long waiting lists for NHS patients, or simply won't be accepting NHS patients at all. If you register as a private patient instead, you'll have to pay significantly more.”

You can search for a dentist local to your university here.

Do university students get free NHS dental care?

Although there is no automatic exemption for free dental care as a student, you could be eligible if one or more of the following circumstances apply to you:

  • You're under 18
  • You're under 19 and in full-time education
  • You're pregnant or have had a baby in the last 12 months
  • You're staying in an NHS hospital and your treatment is carried out by the hospital dentist – but you may have to pay for your dentures or bridges
  • You receive (or you're under 20 and dependent on someone who receives) income support or Jobseeker's Allowance
  • You're under 26 and registered with a Scottish dental practice.

You might also qualify for free dental care by applying for the NHS Low Income Support Scheme.