• Unum’s paid dental claims have increased 35% from 2023 (£30.3m) to 2024 (£41.1m).
• 75% of new dental claims in 2024 were for private dental services.

Specialist employee benefits provider, Unum UK, paid out £41.1 million in dental claims in 2024, representing a 35% increase on the previous year. This growth reflects a broader shift in the UK, where access to NHS dental services continues to decline, prompting more individuals to seek private care.

Unum now insures over 378,000 individuals with its flexible dental cover – a 27% increase year-on-year – underscoring the growing importance of employer-funded health benefits.

Clare Lusted, Head of Product Proposition at Unum UK, commented: "Our flexible and comprehensive dental products are enabling employees to take control of their overall wellbeing. We’re seeing more and more employers respond to the evolving needs of their workforce by offering everyday support that helps people stay at their best.”

Unum’s internal data revealed that 75% of dental claims in 2024 were for private treatments, with examinations, hygienist appointments, and fillings being the most common. This marks a sharp increase from five years ago, when only 59% of claims were for private services.

“The reality is that many people are struggling to access NHS dental care,” Clare added. “Some UK towns have become ‘Dental Deserts’ with no NHS dentists available. At the same time, more than a fifth of employees we surveyed experienced a dental issue last year, making access to private care more essential than ever.

Dental and health cash plans are offering employers a way to provide flexible, affordable benefits that meet the diverse needs of their workforce. Employees can tailor their coverage to suit their lifestyle and budget, which is a key factor in today’s competitive job market.”