Private Dentist Costs by UK Region 2026

How much do private dentists charge in 2026?

Private dental costs vary significantly across the UK. London prices are consistently the highest, typically 30–40% above the national average. Rural areas and parts of the North tend to be lower than major cities, though the gap has narrowed as demand for private care has increased following the contraction of NHS dentistry.

The figures below are based on 2026 market data from private dental price surveys and are intended as indicative ranges. Individual practices may charge more or less depending on their location, facilities, and the experience level of the dentist.

Cost by treatment type and region

Check-up (examination and X-rays): London: £70–£120. South East and East: £55–£100. South West: £50–£90. Midlands: £45–£80. North West and North East: £45–£75. Scotland: £45–£80. Wales: £40–£70.

Hygienist visit (scale and polish): London: £90–£150. South East and East: £75–£130. South West: £65–£110. Midlands: £60–£100. North West and North East: £55–£95. Scotland: £55–£95. Wales: £50–£85.

White filling (composite, one surface): London: £130–£280. South East and East: £110–£230. South West: £100–£200. Midlands: £90–£180. North West and North East: £85–£170. Scotland: £90–£170. Wales: £80–£160.

Major treatment costs by region

Crown (porcelain on metal or all-ceramic): London: £650–£1,000. South East and East: £550–£900. South West: £500–£800. Midlands: £450–£750. North West and North East: £430–£700. Scotland: £450–£750. Wales: £400–£700.

Root canal treatment (anterior tooth): London: £450–£800. South East and East: £400–£700. South West: £380–£650. Midlands: £350–£600. North West and North East: £330–£580. Scotland: £350–£580. Wales: £300–£550.

These figures are for indicative purposes. Complex cases, specialist referrals, or practices with premium premises will charge at the higher end or above these ranges.

How dental plans compare to these costs

Given these treatment costs, dental plans represent significant value for patients who have regular treatment needs. Denplan Care at £15–£22/month (£180–£264/year) can cover unlimited fillings and routine restorative treatment. A single filling in London could cost £200 — equivalent to nearly a full year of Denplan payments.

Simplyhealth plans provide cashback up to annual limits. On a mid-tier plan at around £20/month, you might have £500–£800 annual cashback for dental treatment. This covers check-ups and a filling or two, but may not be sufficient if you need major restorative work.

For patients in London and the South East in particular, where private dental costs are highest, the financial case for a dental plan is strongest.