If you require information on the current situation regarding availability of NHS dentistry then the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) can advise, freephone 0800 328 5620. (Please note this is an advice service and PALS will only contact dental practices on your behalf in exceptional circumstances.) Or telephone your local practice direct for availability. To find your nearest practice, read on.

If patients have a query or concern about their dental care then PALS, as normal, will try to help to resolve the problem.

Helpline for people seeking dental services in the North East Essex area: 0845 0833 337. From 1 November 2008, callers can talk to an adviser who will be able to offer information on accessing a dental practice which is taking on new patients, information on dental charges, advice on how to make a complaint and details of the out-of-hours service. This helpline service is available from 8am-6.30pm, Monday to Friday.

Emergency out-of-hours dental service - in an emergency only ring our out-of-hours NHS dental service on 0845 602 5238 (local rate). Get advice, self help and access to a centre for pain relief and, if necessary, make an appointment to see a dentist the next day. The out-of-hours service is available 6.30pm-8am, Monday to Friday, and 10am-1pm/2pm-5pm, weekends and Bank Holidays.

Dental Out-of-Hours and Dental Helpline Leaflet (Adobe Acrobat - 208 Kb)

The new dental contract has simplified NHS dental charges. To find out more, have a look at NHS Choices website, contact them on 0845 4647 or see the leaflet below.

Those who are exempt will still receive free treatment and care.

We don't maintain a list of dentists on this site because the main NHS website already holds a central list of dentists by area. You can see dentists in the area by searching the main NHS site and from there you can click on the surgery that you are interested in to obtain opening times, contact details and directions.

Guide to NHS Dental Services in England (April 09): this leaflet tells you about NHS dental services in England, what to expect when you go to the dentist, and where you can get more information. It also tells you about charges for NHS dental services.