Dental health insurance

It is generally accepted that the NHS dental service in the UK does not provide access to all those patients who would wish to use it, largely because of a shortage of dentists who are prepared to provide NHS dental services. Also, NHS dentistry is not free, and most patients have to contribute towards the cost of dental treatment, although these costs are considerably less than a private dentist might charge. This combination of lack of availability of NHS dentists and the fact that even with NHS treatment there is a price to pay, leads many people to consider taking out dental health insurance. It is, of course, possible to pay as you go for each visit to a private dentist, but three or even four-figure sums for extensive work are always a possibility if your dental health is anything less than good.

Before taking out a plan it is important to know that you may be entitled to free NHS treatment. This includes those aged under 18, or aged 18 and in full-time education; pregnant women and women who have had a baby in the 12 months before treatment starts; NHS in-patients and the treatment is carried out by the hospital dentist, or an NHS Hospital Dental Service out-patient (although there may be a charge for dentures and bridges).  You may also be eligible for free treatment if you receive income support, a jobseeker's allowance, or a pension credit guarantee. You may also be eligible for help towards dental charges if you are on a low income and you have savings of less than £16,000 (or £21,500 if you are permanently in a care home). The dentist will want to see documentary evidence of your eligibility for free treatment. You can find out more about your eligibility for free NHS dental treatment from the benefits section of the government’s public services website at  www.direct.gov.uk

There are two main types of dental insurance plans available. They are those offered by insurance companies direct to the consumer (stand alone dental insurance) and those where the cover is arranged directly with your dentist (capitation plans).

Stand alone dental insurance.

A large number of insurance companies offer this, including several very large companies with household names. You pay a premium to the insurers, and they will pay claims based on the treatment you receive. The policies vary in what they cover, but typically you will be able to claim for maintenance such as regular check-ups and any necessary X-rays and treatment, including fillings and extractions. Crowns and bridgework may be excluded. With some companies you can see any dentist, but with others you have to choose a dentist from the company’s own approved list of practitioners. The cheaper plans will only refund NHS dental charges, not those from a private dentist. Care is required before taking out such a policy, because for it to be effective, you will have to be registered with an NHS dental practice, and one that you are happy with. In some parts of the country, finding an NHS dentist who will accept you onto his or her list is virtually impossible. The most basic plan offering maintenance only with an NHS dentists, with restorative work excluded, start at about £10 a month. This type of plan may suit someone who has good dental health and rarely needs treatment.

Some private medical insurers also offer dental cover, either as an extra, or are included on one of their premium products. If you are already paying for private medical insurance, adding dental cover may involve only a small increase in premium.