Are Dental Practice Plans Worth It?
A detailed analysis of whether dental membership plans offer real value for money.
Read moreMany people assume private dentistry is only for the wealthy, but with the right approach, high-quality private dental care can be surprisingly affordable. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore practical strategies to make private dentistry accessible for everyone in Bournemouth and beyond.
Why Choose Private Dentistry?
Before we dive into affordability, it's important to understand the benefits of private dentistry:
- Longer appointment times for thorough care
- Access to advanced technology and techniques
- More cosmetic and restorative options
- Greater availability and shorter waiting times
- Continuity of care with the same dentist
7 Ways to Make Private Dentistry Affordable
1. Dental Practice Plans (Membership Plans)
Practice plans are one of the most popular ways to budget for private dental care. At Bourne Dental, our plans offer:
- Monthly payments spread across the year
- Included examinations and hygiene visits
- Discounts on additional treatments (typically 10-20%)
- No unexpected bills for routine care
Our plans start from just £12.50 per month, making private care accessible for most budgets.
2. Interest-Free Finance Options
For larger treatments like implants, crowns, or orthodontics, we offer interest-free finance options through Tabeo. This allows you to:
- Spread the cost over 6-24 months
- Pay 0% interest on approved plans
- Start treatment immediately while paying monthly
3. Focus on Prevention
The most affordable dentistry is the dentistry you never need. Investing in preventive care saves money long-term by:
- Reducing the need for complex treatments
- Catching problems early when they're simpler to treat
- Maintaining your natural teeth for longer
Cost-Saving Tip
Regular hygiene visits can prevent gum disease, which is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults. The cost of maintaining healthy gums is far less than replacing missing teeth with implants or bridges.
4. Prioritize Your Treatment Plan
When presented with a treatment plan, work with your dentist to:
- Address urgent issues first
- Phase treatment over time to spread costs
- Consider long-term value rather than just upfront cost
- Certain restorative treatments
- Crowns, bridges, and dentures
- Orthodontic treatment
You can claim back 20% of the cost between £100 and £10,000 in a year.
6. Consider Dental Insurance
While different from practice plans, dental insurance can help with:
- Unexpected dental emergencies
- Major treatments like root canals or crowns
- Supplementary coverage alongside a practice plan
7. Ask About Payment Options
Don't be afraid to discuss payment options with your dental practice. Many offer:
- Payment plans for larger treatments
- Discounts for upfront payment
- Family discounts when multiple members join plans
Comparing Costs: Private vs NHS Dentistry
While NHS dentistry has fixed band prices, private dentistry offers more transparency and options:
| Treatment | NHS Band | Private (Starting From) | Value Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| White Filling | Sometimes not Available with metal alternative | £200 | More availability privately |
| Porcelain Crown | band 3 nhs fee | £750 | better aesthetic materials |
| Scale & Polish | band 2 often private with hygienist | £87 | More thorough clean with stain removal |
| Grinding guard | band 3 | £200 | More affordable privately |
"Many patients are surprised to learn that some treatments are actually more affordable privately than through the NHS, especially when you consider the quality and time difference." - Dr. Ismail Qazi
Frequently Asked Questions
For most people, yes. The longer appointment times, advanced materials, and preventive focus often lead to better long-term outcomes and fewer dental problems. Many patients find that investing in private care actually saves money over time by avoiding more complex issues.
Yes, many patients choose to have routine care on the NHS and opt for private treatment for specific procedures like teeth whitening, cosmetic bonding, or higher-quality materials for crowns and fillings.
Dental insurance typically covers unexpected dental problems and has claim limits, while practice plans are designed for routine and preventive care with predictable monthly costs. Many patients find value in having both for comprehensive coverage.
About the Author
Dr. Ismail Qazi is a lead dentist at Bourne Dental with over 10 years of experience. She specializes in helping patients find affordable pathways to optimal dental health through preventive care and appropriate treatment planning.
