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Let's talk about the government’s probe into private dental fees...
The Business of Dentistry (BOD) is an independent, dentist-led organisation representing UK practice owners, associates, dental teams and emerging clinicians. We host national conferences, produce insight reports and support over 10,000 professionals through education and community platforms.
Key Commentary Areas BOD Can Provide
1. How private dental fees are formed
Prices reflect chair-time costs, clinical staff wages, materials, lab bills, regulatory compliance, equipment investment and overheads.
2. Why fees vary across the UK
Regional costs, workforce pressures, practice models and availability of specialist equipment have a significant impact.
3. NHS contract limitations
The NHS system sets fixed fees and capped activity, pushing complex or time-intensive work into the private sector. This is not about “profit differences” but structural differences in funding models.
4. Economics of safe dental care
Modern infection control, digital dentistry, sterilisation, insurance and compliance requirements all carry real operational costs.
5. Access challenges
Many regions face dentist shortages, increasing competition for appointments and pushing up demand for private care.
6. What would genuinely improve affordability
Better national workforce planning, realistic NHS contract reform and tax incentives for equipment investment.
Dr Dan Shaffer
Educator, Entrepreneur & Co-Founder, The Business of Dentistry
Dr. Dan Shaffer is a dual-qualified dentist and dental technician with a passion for education, digital transformation, and creative leadership. He is Cofounder and clinical director of Active Aligners UK and the Assistant Dean of City of London Dental school
Dr James Martin
Founder, Dentists Who Invest
Dr. James Martin is a dentist-turned-financial educator, dedicated to helping dental professionals build wealth and achieve financial freedom. Through his platform, Dentists Who Invest, he has created a global community that brings together finance, mindset, and professional development to empower dentists beyond the clinic.
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