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Denplan vs Simplyhealth 2026
Which is the better dental plan for you?
Quick verdict
Choose Denplan if you...
- Already have a registered Denplan dentist
- Want one monthly fee with no claiming process
- Have regular treatment needs (fillings, crowns)
- Value the capitation model for predictable costs
Choose Simplyhealth if you...
- Want to use any dentist (NHS or private)
- Are still finding a dentist
- Prefer a lower monthly premium
- Want to cover NHS treatment costs
Head-to-head comparison
| Feature | Denplan | Simplyhealth |
|---|---|---|
| Plan type | Capitation | Health cash plan |
| Monthly price | from £13 | from £8 |
| Any dentist | No (Denplan network) | Yes (any dentist) |
| NHS cover | No | Yes |
| Online signup | No (via dentist) | Yes |
| Emergency included | Add-on (+£0.60/mo) | Yes (most plans) |
| No waiting period | Yes (after assessment) | Yes |
| Hygienist included | Yes | Yes (cashback) |
| Claim process | No claims needed | Pay then claim back |
| Overall score | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 |
How do they work differently?
Denplan is a capitation plan. You pay your dentist a fixed monthly amount, and in return they provide all agreed routine and restorative treatment. There is no claims process — your dentist simply treats you as needed. Your monthly fee is set based on your individual oral health assessment.
Simplyhealth is a health cash plan. You pay a monthly premium and when you have dental treatment (at any NHS or private dentist), you pay upfront then claim back a set amount. Annual cashback limits apply per treatment type.
Price comparison
Simplyhealth starts at £8/month for a basic plan. Denplan starts at around £13/month for Denplan Essentials, rising to £15 to £22/month for Denplan Care (the most popular plan covering routine and restorative treatment).
However, price alone is not the right measure. Denplan Care at £17/month typically covers fillings, crowns, and root canals — potentially saving hundreds of pounds if you need treatment. Simplyhealth at £8/month has cashback limits that may not cover the full cost of private treatment.
Which is better for different situations?
I have a private dentist who offers Denplan
Denplan — No claims, one monthly fee, full treatment cover.
I want to use my NHS dentist
Simplyhealth — Simplyhealth covers NHS treatment; Denplan does not work with NHS-only dentists.
I am still looking for a dentist
Simplyhealth — You can sign up online immediately and use any dentist once you find one.
I need fillings or more complex treatment
Denplan — Denplan Care covers restorative treatment without annual cashback limits.
I want the lowest monthly premium
Simplyhealth — From £8/month vs Denplan from £13/month.
I travel frequently and want emergency cover
BUPA or WPA — Neither Denplan nor Simplyhealth standard plans include worldwide emergency cover.
Frequently asked questions
Is Denplan better than Simplyhealth?
It depends on your situation. Denplan is better if you already have a private dentist and want a single monthly fee covering all treatment. Simplyhealth is better if you want flexibility to use any dentist and prefer a cashback model.
Are Denplan and Simplyhealth the same company?
Simplyhealth owns Denplan, but they operate as separate products. They are fundamentally different: Denplan is a capitation plan managed by your dentist; Simplyhealth is a cashback health plan you buy directly.
Can I have both Denplan and Simplyhealth?
Yes, technically you can hold both. However, there may be duplication of coverage. Check both policies to ensure you are not paying for the same cover twice.
Which is cheaper overall?
Simplyhealth is cheaper in terms of monthly premium (from £8 vs £13). However, Denplan can be better value if you have significant treatment needs, as it covers fillings and restorative work without annual cashback limits.