I often hear that Americans think that the British have bad teeth, read these comments and you can see the debate, but how does going to the dentist work over here.
One thing is not all water over here has fluoride added. There are concerns that it is not safe and they are not sure of the effects. I like that the British are concerned at just adding something into the mix without knowing what the side effects are, this is why you will not see certain preservatives in their foods as well.
The British are comfortable with a non-perfect smile as long as the teeth are healthy. They don't chase the Hollywood smile that Americans look for. They will get braces if they are needed but not for cosmetic reasons.You will find on the USAF it is the same.
As you may know there is a healthcare system known as the NHS. The British are also allowed to see the dentist on the NHS as well. Children under 18 are allowed to see the dentist free of cost. Adults get subsidised dentistry from NHS authorised dentists.
Alternatively as with doctors, people are able to see a dentist privately for cosmetic and other needs. I see my dentist every 6-9 months and they have an x-ray machine in the same room as they look at your teeth which I thought was smart. They are very good and I have been impressed. The hygienist told me off for not flossing enough but once I went back she said there was good progress, I never got that in the military. I never saw the same person twice and I had to make sure I scheduled myself every 6 months otherwise it would have been on an annual basis.
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