Private Dental Costs Soar Across the UK: What Our Research Reveals
Key Findings at a Glance:
- 32.38% increase in the cost of simple (non-surgical) extractions between 2022 and 2024.
- 23.08% rise in the price of initial consultations for new patients.
- Costs vary widely by region, with Scotland offering the lowest prices and cities like Cambridge topping the charts.
- Routine check-ups for existing patients increased by 14.58%, with costs rising from £48 in 2022 to £55 in 2024.
As NHS dentistry becomes increasingly inaccessible, private dental costs in the UK have surged, leaving patients struggling to afford essential care. Our latest research at myTribe Insurance Experts highlights these trends, based on pricing data collected from hundreds of private dental practices across the UK from 2022 to 2024.
Rising Costs and Regional Disparities
The average price of a simple tooth extraction—one of the most common procedures—has seen a dramatic 32.38% increase, rising from £105 in 2022 to £139 in 2024. Routine care hasn’t been spared either: initial consultations for new patients now cost £80 on average, up from £65 in 2022. Such price hikes reflect a combination of inflation, staffing shortages, and growing demand for private care.
Interestingly, regional variations paint a stark picture of inequality. While London remains one of the most expensive areas for complex treatments, cities like Cambridge and Watford now lead the way in terms of cost for specific procedures. For example, an anterior root canal in Cambridge costs an eye-watering £660—a sharp contrast to £286 in Scotland.
The NHS dentistry crisis is pushing more people to go private
The issues facing NHS dentistry has been a growing concern, with many patients unable to secure appointments for routine or emergency care. Reports from The Guardian reveal that some patients are resorting to extreme measures, such as DIY dental care, as private fees become unaffordable.
Chris Steele, Founder of myTribe Insurance Experts, explains: “The ongoing NHS dental crisis is clearly having a knock-on effect. As more patients switch to private care, we’re seeing demand surge, particularly for urgent and complex procedures. Add in soaring inflation and staffing costs, and you’ve got a perfect storm for price rises.”
This sentiment echoes findings from leading dental associations, which have called for urgent action to address both NHS provision and the affordability of private care. For example, one source noted that "over 90% of NHS dental practices are no longer taking new patients, pushing more people into the private sector."
What Does This Mean for Patients?
The financial burden is particularly heavy for families and individuals without dental insurance. However, there are strategies to mitigate costs:
- Membership Schemes: Many practices offer monthly membership plans that include discounted check-ups and hygiene appointments.
- Dental Cash Plans: People can spread the cost of their dental care, and receive cash back on their appointments.
- Private Medical Insurance Add-Ons: Some insurance policies allow for routine dental coverage as an optional extra, helping to offset costs.
Looking Ahead
The rise in private dental costs underscores the need for systemic reform. While Scotland and Northern Ireland remain more affordable, Southern England—particularly affluent areas—continues to see steep increases. Regional disparities, coupled with the NHS crisis, mean that many patients are left without viable options for affordable care.
As Chris Steele highlights: “We’ve found significant price differences between practices in the same town or city. So, when comparing prices, don’t just focus on routine check-ups. The biggest price differences often lie in less routine or more complex treatments.”
A representative from the British Dental Association told The Guardian, “The system is at breaking point. Unless we address the shortage of NHS services and the rising costs of private care, oral health inequality will only worsen.”
Download myTribe's Full Research Report
You can download our full research report into the rising cost of private dentistry here.
About myTribe Insurance Experts
myTribe Insurance Experts is a trusted provider of impartial insurance and healthcare insights. Our team conducts independent research to help individuals navigate complex decisions in private healthcare and insurance. As NHS services face growing pressures, our work has become an essential resource for those exploring private options.
For more information, visit myTribe Insurance Experts.
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