As a private healthcare provider supporting patients in the UK for more than 70 years, Bupa has a history of leading where others might follow – and their latest proposition for policy holders is no exception.

In an industry first, Bupa is adding a £300 complementary dental allowance to its PMI policies as standard, meaning all new and existing customers will receive the allowance as part of their core cover.

It means everyone on a Bupa health insurance policy is now entitled to one dental appointment a year at a participating Bupa Dental Care Centre and a £300 benefit allowance for restorative dental treatment, such as root canals or fillings, per policy year too with no excess applied, and without affecting your no claims discount (NCD).

Is the demand for dental services at an all-time high?

Our research shows that Google searches for the term ‘NHS dentist’ have risen by around a third when compared to this time two years ago, and waiting lists for NHS dentists are always a hot topic. With this in mind, knowing that the cost of your annual check-up and any routine dental work could now be covered by your Bupa health insurance could be very welcome news for many.

Our data shows that there were 49,500 Google searches for ‘NHS dentist’ in July 2024, which is 33% more than there were in July 2022. Additionally, 31% more people put the term ‘NHS Dentist Waiting List’ into Google within the same time frame*.

Clarity Health Insurance Director Kyle Godden says that by offering a dental allowance as part of its core cover, together with the latest research, Bupa is addressing a crucial aspect of healthcare that is becoming increasingly overlooked.

Kyle said: “This move comes at a critical time. A recent study found that nearly a third (30%) of people in the UK1 struggle to access an NHS dentist, while a BBC investigation2 found that nine in 10 NHS dental practices across the UK are not accepting new adult patients for treatment.

“By giving policyholders access to these new dental benefits, including one dental appointment per year at a participating Bupa Dental Care Centre, Bupa’s new benefit not only adds value to their policies but also promotes overall health and wellbeing. This proactive approach addresses significant barriers to dental care and sets a positive precedent in the industry.”

You can find more information on Bupa cover here, or contact the Clarity Health Insurance team for more help and advice on investing in PMI here or by calling 01242 350071.