A difference-in-differences analysis of the effect of free dental check-ups in Scotland

► Scotland has a relatively worse oral health compared to England and Wales. ► The Scottish Government introduced free NHS dental check-ups in April 2006 as a way of encouraging utilisation. ► This is the first systematic evaluation of the impact of the introduction of free dental check-ups on utilisation in Scotland. ► Our results show a 3-4% increase in NHS dental check-up, attributed to the free dental check-up policy. ► Increased utilisation of NHS dental care services may have wider implications in terms of cost and sustainability.