Private dentist charges

I belong to Denplan which gives me two ‘free’ check ups and hygienist visits a year.

Each check up takes about 20 minutes and usually includes an X-ray, along with a check for any growths along my jawline.
Hygienist visit takes 20 - 25 minutes.

The scheme also gives a discount on any work needed. I did need quite a lot of complicated work a few years ago, so I think I just about break even (contributions are now £15 a month).

Paid about the same for about ten minutes check up. The hygienist charges £89 for about 30mins but is really good and doesn’t cause me the pain I have had when other hygienists have had a go. The upside is I can always get an appointment and they do a good job. The difference between the NHS dentist and the private was really significant when I had dentures fitted.

We payed that for a private check up 18 months ago. Dentists are highly trained professionals. They have to employ a lot of support staff and pay for the premises they occupy and all the associated costs. They also use a lot of costly euipment and need to make sure both they and their staff are up to date with dvelopments in dental care. Sounds uite reasonable to me.