Is Denplan right for you?

Dental care is a personal thing.  For some, it’s about staying on top of routine check-ups.  For others, it may involve managing long-term oral health conditions. Whatever your situation, having a clear and manageable way to pay for dental treatment can make a real difference.

One option you might have come across, at Dartford Road Dental Centre is Denplan.

You might then ask, ‘Is Denplan right for me?’

You may have heard of Denplan through a member of our team at our Dartford practice, or seen it mentioned online, via our website.  But what is it, really?  And how do you know if it’s the right choice for you?  As dental professionals, we often get asked about Denplan, and we think it’s important to give an honest, balanced view of what it can offer — and what it might not.

What is Denplan?

Denplan is a type of dental payment plan.  It allows you to spread the cost of private dental care at Dartford Road Dental Centre, in monthly payments rather than paying in full each time you have treatment.  The idea is to make dental care more predictable and, in some cases, more affordable over time.

It’s not an insurance policy, although some Denplan options include a level of optional cover for emergencies or injuries.  There are different plans available, and what you are covered for depends on the plan you choose.

Some patients report that they are more likely to visit the Dentist regularly, when they are signed up to one of our Denplan options, which helps achieve and  maintain great oral health.

What does it cover?

This varies. Patients who use Denplan are on either a maintenance or care plan.

• Plans can include:
• Regular check-ups
• Hygiene appointments
• Some treatments, such as fillings or extractions (Included in Denplan care and available with a 10% discount on Denplan essentials)

Each plan is tailored to your needs following a dental assessment.  Should your oral health is stable and low risk, your monthly fee may be lower.  If you need more regular treatment or have a history of dental issues, it may cost a little more.

If you begin a plan at a higher level, due to frequent dental issues, but later your dental needs reduce, it may be possible to reduce your membership band, subsequently reducing your monthly payment.  Our friendly, professional team can advise you further when you call or are next in the practice.

It’s important to check the details of each plan carefully and ask questions before signing up; we will be with you throughout this process, so you can make an informed choice.

Our website provides an outline of what is covered on each plan https://www.drdc.co.uk/fees/denplan/

For many patients, the main benefit is peace of mind.  Denplan, at Dartford Road Dental Centre are already covered will take away the stress of unexpected dental bills.  It may also encourage regular attendance, which can help catch problems early. Some people find that they’re more likely to book routine appointments when they’ve already paid for them as part of a plan.

In some cases, Denplan may include worldwide emergency cover or dental injury cover, which can be helpful if you travel frequently or play contact sports.

Are there any drawbacks?

Denplan is not be the best fit for everyone.  If you rarely need treatment and only visit the dentist once a year, you might end up paying more over time than if you just paid as you go.  This is why we suggest discussing any Denplan options with your Dentist, to find the best fit for you.

There are also some treatments that are not be included, such as cosmetic procedures including composit bonding, teeth whitening, implants and orthodontics.  You would  have to pay for these separately, even if you’re on a Denplan.  Should you wish to proceed with cosmetic dental treatment while on Denplan, we can of course discuss available finance options, if necessary (subject to T&Cs).

Denplan offers an opportunity to build a long-term relationship with Dartford Road Dental Centre, as you will be seen here regularly for all of your check ups and Hygienist visits.  While that works well for continuity, in many cases, it may not suit everyone, especially if you move home or change practices often.

Lastly, Denplan does not cover lab fees in all cases, and certain treatments will still come with a separate charge.  We can, offer a full breakdown so you understand what’s included and what isn’t.

The Denplan website offers further insight into the various plans available https://www.denplan.co.uk/patients

Should you consider it?

When asking the question, ‘Is Denplan right for me?’, you should consider if you…

…prefer budgeting monthly rather than paying larger bills occasionally

 …attend Dartford Road Dental Centre regularly and want to stay on top of your oral health

 …value added cover for emergencies or injuries

 -…like the reassurance of planned care

Denplan at Dartford Road, is one way to manage the cost of dental care, but it’s not the only way.  It suits some patients very well, while others might prefer a different approach.  What matters most is that you feel informed and comfortable with whatever choice you make.  If you’re considering Denplan, feel free to speak with us during your next visit.

We’re happy to talk through your options, answer any questions and help you decide what’s best for your individual needs. There’s no pressure — just honest advice based on your oral health and what matters most to you.

If you have any questions ahead of your next visit, as always, feel free to call 01322 223927, we are always happy to help.