I hear there are problems with the NHS dentistry coverage.

Any opinions on this?  I hear that supposedly some details of the coverage kind of encourages some unethical treatments.  Like when you can save a tooth with a root canal they rip the thing out instead.  Kind of go with the easiest?  Idunno.

I don't know how true this is or any real details.  I've just been recommended several times to go with private insurance instead.

I've had two root canal treatments in the UK and was never offered a tooth pull instead. My treatment has always been good and efficient here. YMMV

We have a great dentist - he's worked hard to save a tooth that many in the US would have pulled. Sure there are bad ones out there, like anywhere, but ultimately YOU determine what's done.....if you don't like what is planned, say so.

Due to waiting lists, I had a private dentist for 4 years before getting an NHS dentist.  Both dentists have only ever offered the best and cost effective treatments.  Neither one wanted to take advantage of the situation.  I've been highly impressed. Unlike all the dentists I have ever had in the US, who wanted to take my dental insurance and go hog wild with every. single. possible treament under the sun!!!!!  As with all things related to this, YMMV!

I hear that supposedly some details of the coverage kind of encourages some unethical treatments.  

The same thing can easily be said of dentists in the U.S.  Apparently, it's particularly bad in states like Florida, where dentists can refuse to treat you at all if you don't agree to every treatment they recommend.  People often get pushed into unnecessarily expensive-- or just plain unnecessary-- treatments.

As far as U.K. dentistry goes, my husband and I have had great dental care here, both in terms of routine check-ups/cleanings and for bigger issues.  My husband has had two root canals, and I've had two broken/chipped molars filled & repaired, and a bridge repaired.  Never once has anyone suggested just pulling anything out.

As vadio said, ultimately, you're in control of your own treatment.  If you'd rather they do something differently, say so.  If they can't or won't, find a different dentist.  Just be aware that, if something isn't offered under the NHS (usually stuff considered 'cosmetic'), you might have to pay more for it-- but even then, it'll be a fraction of what you'd pay in the U.S.

If you're offered dental coverage by your employer, take it, because why not?  But it's not something I'd spend extra money on, unless you've had extensive dental issues and would be looking at things like implants or cosmetic dentistry.  And in that case, make sure those things would actually be covered under the policy before you sign up.

I've had two different dentists here in the UK (the first one moved away) and tooth pulling was the very last resort for both of them.

My experience in the US, was a bit like phatbeetle's where one of my dentist's did everything he could do with the insurance I had, even if it wasn't really needed at the time.  I did go with it however because it was stuff that would have to be done *eventually* (like replacing old fillings) and my dental coverage was going to end soon anyway.

I have insurance coverage in the UK so haven't used an NHS dentist for a few years, but friends' experiences have been favorable.

My US dentist recommended 5 crowns to replace large NHS fillings at my first visit. When I said I couldn't afford them his reply was "OK", let's do them when those fillings really need replacing". So I had them done over a period of years, mostly at my request
as the crowns look so much better than large amalgam fillings, and once when vigorous flossing popped a filling right out of my mouth!

So I guess you just have to speak up if you have a question about treatment, wherever you are.

We weren't able to find an NHS denist close enough who was taking new patients.  So I tried a private dentist and I love her!  We are on Denplan which is sort of pre-paid arrangement.  Unfortunately the premium is based on the current state of your teeth 

My daughter had an unfortunate experience with NHS dentists in London.  She'd been going to them for some time and had no complaints but when she tried to get some work brought forward (she was about to start chemo) they wouldn't work her in.  She had to ring round private dentists and finally found one who was happy to accommodate her.

I've found the opposite to be true. Our nhs dentist does everything to avoid pulling teeth, even when I was amazed she was trying to save it (as it required several more visits to do so).

As with anything else nhs, a lot of private dentists are also nhs dentists who take some nhs patients so you get the same care from the same person.