If you are a new or experienced dentist in the UK, deciding whether to run your practice fully NHS, private or a mixture of both can be a tricky decision.
Both options have benefits and challenges, and the right choice depends on the dentist’s goals, financial expectations, and the level of care they want to provide.
As the statistics go, there are 35,000 dentists in the UK of which 24,000 (around 75%) did some kind of NHS care in the last year. Most practices offer both types, with only 15% of practices being fully NHS.
| Category | NHS Dental Practice | Private Dental Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Lower, with set NHS band charges (e.g., £25.80 for a check-up, £70.70 for fillings, £306.80 for crowns in England). | Higher, as prices are set by the dentist (e.g., £50–£100 for a check-up, £500+ for crowns, £2,000+ for implants). |
| Appointments | Longer waiting times, sometimes weeks or months for routine check-ups. | Faster availability, often same-day or next-day appointments. |
| Availability | High demand, but limited NHS dentists mean some patients struggle to get appointments. | More flexible, with easier access for patients who can afford private care. |
| Treatments | Only essential treatments covered (e.g., fillings, extractions, root canals). No cosmetic treatments. | Full range of treatments, including cosmetic dentistry (e.g., teeth whitening, Invisalign, dental implants). |
| Technology | Limited by NHS budget, may not have access to the latest dental technology. | Can invest in advanced technology, such as 3D scanning and laser treatments. |
| Patient Experience | Shorter appointment times, high patient turnover. | Longer consultations, more personalised care. |
What Is The Patient Access and Demand in Your Area?
NHS dental practices are in high demand because they offer more affordable treatment options. According to the British Dental Association (BDA), over 50% of adults in England visited an NHS dentist in the past two years. However, many people struggle to get appointments due to a shortage of NHS dentists and long waiting times. Private practices, on the other hand, can offer quicker appointments and a wider range of treatments.
What is The Difference in Income Between The NHS and Private?
NHS dentists are paid through a contract with the government. They earn money based on Units of Dental Activity (UDA), which means they receive a set amount for different types of treatment. The average UDA value is around £25 to £30, but this varies by location. This system limits how much an NHS dentist can earn.
Private dentists set their own fees, which can lead to higher earnings. A simple check-up may cost £25 on the NHS, but in a private practice, it can be £50 to £100. Complex treatments such as cosmetic procedures and dental implants are only available privately, allowing private dentists to increase their income. However, private dentists must attract and retain their own patients, while NHS dentists have a steady stream of people needing care.
What Are The NHS And Private Treatment Options and Equipment
NHS dentists can only provide treatments covered by the NHS contract. This includes essential dental care such as fillings, root canals, and extractions but does not cover cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening or veneers. Private dentists can offer a wider range of treatments, including Invisalign braces, teeth straightening, and dental implants, which are not available on the NHS.
Private dentists also have more flexibility in choosing the latest technology and materials. NHS dentists must stick to cost-effective treatments approved by the NHS, which may limit their ability to use the newest dental techniques.
For patients, they may be able to use dental insurance or business health insurance plans to cover some basic routine treatments.
What is the NHS Patient Experience and Appointment Availability Compared To Private?
One of the biggest differences between NHS and private dental practices is appointment availability. NHS dentists often have very busy schedules, leading to longer waiting times. Patients sometimes have to wait weeks or even months for a check-up or treatment.
Private practices usually have more flexibility, offering same-day or next-day appointments. Many private dentists also allow longer appointment times, giving patients a more relaxed experience. This can improve patient satisfaction and build stronger relationships between dentists and their patients.
Conclusion
There is no right or wrong choice between NHS and private dentistry. NHS dentists have job security, steady patient demand, and provide an essential service to the public. Private dentists, however, have more control over their work, can earn higher incomes, and provide a wider range of treatments. For some dentists, a mixed practice—offering both NHS and private services—can be the best option, allowing them to benefit from both worlds.
