In this rapidly evolving landscape of dentistry, characterized by advancements in technology, changing patient expectations, and the emergence of new treatment methodologies, it becomes increasingly crucial for stakeholders in the dental insurance sector to remain attuned to the latest trends. By doing so, we can better assist our dental insurance customers in accessing the products and services that are essential for their oral health and overall well-being.
To this end, we have conducted a thorough analysis of a recent oral health survey focused on dental trends and attitudes in the UK. This survey provides invaluable insights into how patients perceive dental care, their preferences when it comes to treatment options, and the factors that influence their decisions regarding dental insurance. By examining the data collected, we can identify key patterns and shifts in consumer behavior that will inform our strategies moving forward.
Key Findings from 2024:
Six in ten (61%) NHS dental patients would consider paying for private dental care, with the top reason being to access faster treatment (39%). All of our dental insurance plans cover NHS and private care so as most dentists offer both you can stay with your NHS dentist with access to their private care.
90% of people with a health plan, that lets them claim back the cost of dental care, go to the dentist or hygienist at least once every two years, compared to 70% of those with no cover. It is proven that prevention is better than cure and taking advantage of the fact that check-ups and hygienist care is covered in all our plans, you can save yourself from invasive treatments by identifying issues before they develop.
Half (50%) of parents said they had not taken or didn’t intend to take their child to the dentist by the time they are three-years-old, despite official guidance recommending they are taken when the first milk teeth appear, usually at six months. We can offer family cover so all children are covered, although it is worth pointing out that children are entitled to free NHS care in the UK. Starting your children early with good oral care is essential for the long term care of their teeth into adulthod.
31% of people worrying about the cost of visiting the dentist. This explains why there’s a decrease to 54% of people who pay as they go, down 5% since 2021, and an increase in people reclaiming their costs via a health plan or insurance plan, this year 7%, up from 5% in 2021. All of our dental insurance plans can help with covering these costs.
Among the key learnings derived from this survey are the increasing importance of preventive care and the growing awareness of oral health's connection to overall health. Patients are becoming more proactive in seeking dental services that emphasize prevention, such as regular check-ups, cleanings, and educational resources about maintaining good oral hygiene. This shift highlights the necessity for dental insurance products that not only cover a wide range of treatments but also incentivize preventive measures.
Long-term sickness is a reality for UK employers, with 2.8 million off on long-term sick overall. What many might not know is that the high number of sick days is, in part, due to dental issues. This year our research shows that 6% of people say they have taken time off work due to dental problems – equating to 11.7 million working days lost a year.
By offering dental insurance as an emplyee beneift, employers can support their workforce with access to oral health support that allows them to focus on prevention and early intervention. All of our plans cover the cost of dental check-ups and hygienist visits. This enables employees to take a more proactive approach to their oral healthcare routines by encouraging more regular attendance and focusing on preventing problems rather than having to cure them.
In summary, the insights gained from the latest survey on dental trends and attitudes in the UK are instrumental in guiding our approach to supporting our dental insurance customers. By focusing on preventive care, enhancing transparency, and embracing technological advancements, we can ensure that our clients have the tools and resources they need to make informed decisions about their dental health. As we continue to navigate this changing world of dentistry, it is imperative to remain responsive to these evolving trends to effectively meet the needs of our customers.
If you would like to talk to us about offering dental insurance as an employee benefit, please contact us today for a no obligation quotation.
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