Almost all dental practice in the UK deliver some degree of private dentistry. A mixed treatment economy is positive and necessary, providing rewarding career options for dentists and choice for patients.
The contribution of private dentistry to UK oral healthcare is undeniable. The current landscape demonstrates just how vital the private sector has become – millions of patients now actively seek private care, reflecting strong public trust and demand, as well as the professionalism and commitment of colleagues delivering it.
Private dentistry enables dentists to offer the breadth of treatment that today’s patients expect, including cosmetic and advanced treatments using innovative techniques and materials that are not always available within NHS frameworks. This flexibility supports the standards of care that our members take pride in delivering.
It’s also true that in today’s system, where NHS treatments are frequently delivered at a loss, private work sustains practice operations and maintains access to dentistry for communities across the UK. Our estimates are that private income subsidises the NHS to the tune of hundreds of millions of pounds.
Private dentists, like any professionals, must ensure fees cover the real cost of delivering safe, high-quality care.
Private dentistry is not only a service model - it's an active career choice many dentists make. Whether delivering fully private or mixed care, private dentistry offers professional autonomy, enables time with patients and encourages postgraduate training to allow dentists to tailor their work to their clinical talents and interests.
The freedom to shape your career and livelihood is an important feature for any practice owner or self-employed associate in today’s dental sector. As the voice of dentists in the UK, we are committed to supporting your work, your career choices and your contribution to the health and wellbeing of the nation.
