Private dental practices across the UK are capitalizing on the shortage of NHS dental services, significantly raising fees for common treatments. Patients now face “eye-watering” costs, with research showing that prices for procedures like root canals, tooth extractions, and fillings have soared since 2022.
A report by MyTribe Insurance reveals that patients are paying as much as £775 for root canal work, £435 for a tooth extraction, and £325 for a white filling. These increases have made private dental care unaffordable for many, leaving patients without viable options for essential oral health services.
Cost of Common Procedures Escalates
Research analyzed prices at 450 private dental practices across 52 UK towns and cities. The findings showed significant inflation-busting increases:
• White fillings now cost an average of £129, up 23% from £105 in 2022.
• Tooth extractions rose by 32%, averaging £139 compared to £105 previously.
• Routine checkups increased by 15%, now averaging £55.
• Root canal treatments climbed 14%, with average prices jumping to £400.
However, regional disparities in pricing remain stark. For instance, root canals cost up to £775 in the East Midlands but just £250 in Belfast. Similarly, white fillings are priced at £198.90 in Watford but only £70 in Luton.
Patients Left Without Options
Patient advocacy groups warn that the rising cost of private dental care, combined with limited access to NHS services, has created a dangerous cycle. Rachel Power, CEO of the Patients Association, said, “Essential dental care is now out of reach for many, leaving patients bouncing between an inaccessible NHS and unaffordable private care.”
A Healthwatch survey revealed that one in five adults in England, and two in five lower-income individuals, avoid dental care due to costs. The organization’s CEO, Louise Ansari, called the situation “alarming,” highlighting the lack of affordable solutions for those in need.
Industry Leaders Address the Crisis
Chris Steele, founder of MyTribe Insurance, advises patients to shop around for better pricing and consider membership schemes or dental insurance to offset costs. However, systemic issues persist.
The British Dental Association attributes the price hikes to inflationary pressures, increased operational costs, and the financial strain of treating NHS patients at a loss. Meanwhile, Neil Carmichael, chair of the Association of Dental Groups, emphasizes the urgent need for an additional 3,000 dentists to meet demand and stabilize prices.
What Patients Can Do
With private dental fees continuing to rise, patients are urged to:
• Compare prices across dental practices.
• Explore membership plans for discounts.
• Consider dental insurance to mitigate expenses.
The shortage of dentists and ongoing NHS funding challenges suggest the crisis will persist unless systemic reforms are implemented.
