This Week in Dentistry: 3 Key Stories Practice Owners Should Know (as of July 17, 2025)

Dr Dan Shaffer
Jul 15
2 min read

Updated: Jul 16

Staying informed on the latest developments in dentistry isn’t just good business it’s essential for making sound decisions about your practice’s future. Here’s this week’s curated round-up of the most important UK dental news, with quick, actionable insights for Dentists.

📰 1️⃣ NHS Dentistry Reform: Still No Clear Roadmap

Source: Dentistry.co.uk | July 11, 2025

Headline: “BDA: NHS Dentistry Reform at Risk of Becoming ‘Permanent Crisis’”

What’s Happening:The British Dental Association (BDA) has once again raised concerns that promised NHS dental contract reforms remain stuck in political limbo. Despite repeated government pledges, no clear timeline has been announced for structural changes to funding or delivery models.

What This Means for Your Practice:

Don’t build your 2026 strategy around NHS reform promises.
Private and mixed practices should focus on solidifying their positioning now — not waiting for clarity later.
Recruitment and retention remain challenging under the current NHS uncertainty.

📰 2️⃣ Private Dental Fees Continue to Rise Above Inflation

Source: The Probe | July 9, 2025

Headline: “Private Dentistry Fees Up 7% Year on Year”

What’s Happening:Industry data shows private dental fees have risen by an average of 7% across the UK, outpacing inflation. This reflects both increased operating costs and growing consumer demand for high-quality, cosmetic, and preventive care.

What This Means for Your Practice:

Patients remain willing to invest in care that adds value, not just addresses pain.
Don’t race to the bottom on price. Instead, double down on perceived value and patient experience.
Review your pricing annually to ensure you’re aligned with market shifts.

📰 3️⃣ AI & Diagnostics: Hype Meets Practicality

Source: Dental Tribune | July 10, 2025

Headline: “AI-Driven Diagnostics Gaining Ground in Clinical Dentistry”

What’s Happening:AI-based diagnostic tools continue to evolve, with trials showing increased accuracy in detecting early-stage caries and periodontal conditions. However, adoption remains cautious, with regulatory bodies slow to approve widespread use.

What This Means for Your Practice:

Stay informed on emerging technologies but proceed with caution.
Don’t buy into the hype — focus on tools that improve efficiency and patient care now.
Early adopters may gain a marketing edge, but ROI should be your priority.

💡 BizDentistry Takeaway:

While the headlines might seem disconnected, the message is clear: the future of dentistry isn’t waiting for NHS reform. It’s being shaped by patient demand, private innovation, and technology readiness today. Successful practices will act now — not react later.