Unum UK dental claims rise by 35% as more employers turn to private care

Unum UK paid out £41.1m in dental claims in 2024, up 35% on the £30.3m paid in 2023. 

The company now covers over 378,000 people with its dental cover, an increase of 27% compared to last year. 

Unum’s internal data showed 75% of dental claims were for private treatments in 2024, such as examinations, hygienist appointments and fillings. 

This was up from 59% five years ago.

Clare Lusted, head of product proposition at Unum UK, said: “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.”

“The reality is that many people are struggling to access NHS dental care. Some UK towns have become ‘Dental Deserts’ with no NHS dentists available.”

Lusted added: “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.”