Cant afford dental care!! Need help!?

My teeth are in a very bad state, as have not visited a dentist in several years. A month ago I decided to register to a dentist, as I was unaware of the huge costs. I went for a check up, and the damn dentist charged me £36 just to look at my teeth, and since I need quite a few fillings, and fillngs cost approx £55-£85 each, I will no way be able to afford it. Im not sure but would I be entitled to free dental care on the NHS, Im 20 and in full time education. If NHS can provide me free dental care, how do I pursue it?? Do I just pop into the general hospital, or do I go to a private dentist to ask if they accept NHS patients, and if so will it be free?? Or if NHS do not provide free dental care for me, will the NHS be cheaper?? Any advice/suggestions will be helpful. Thanks!!!!!!!
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OK, You can get free NHS dental treatment if you are: - under 18 - 16-18 and in full-time education - pregnant, or have had a baby in the 12 months before treatment starts, - an NHS inpatient and the treatment is carried out by the hospital dentist, or - an NHS Hospital Dental Service outpatient. There may be a charge for dentures and bridges You are entitled to help if you or your partner, receive either: - Income Support - Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance, or - Guarantee Pension Credit, or - you are entitled to, or named on, a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate, or - you are named on a valid HC2 certificate. Partial help: If you hold a valid HC3 certificate, you might get some help towards the cost of your NHS dental treatment. The certificate tells you how much you will have to pay. Students who are 19 years of age or older do not automatically receive free dental NHS Dental Care. However, all students should apply for a HC2 Certificate through a HC1 form. The application process normally takes upto six weeks and is dependent upon your means. In our experience, we have found that most students who apply are successful. The HC2 Certificate also gives you free prescriptions and eye tests. It is only valid for six months and requires re-application after that time. If you require dental care and have not got a HC2 certificate yet, you must pay for your NHS dental care. If you keep your receipts you can obtain a refund of your charges when you receive your certificate. To apply for an HC2 or HC3 certificate, you should complete form HC1 available from any Jobcentre Plus or most NHS hospitals. Your doctor, dentist or optician may have one too. If you are unable to obtain a form you can get one by calling 0845 610 1110.
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