Inflation in dentistry now stands at more than 11%, according to new analysis from the profession.
On average, lab bills are increasing by 15% and almost one fifth of dentists are seeing their utility bills rise by more than 50%.
This is according to BDA modelling of data from NHS Digital, the Office of National Statistics and its own surveys.
Earlier this week, the association slammed the 4.5% hike in the salaries of NHS dentists, arguing that it does not go far enough in addressing the current crisis.
Dental accounts NASDAL estimated a fall of 10% in cash terms for typical dentists in 2020/21.
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In setting out its recommendation on pay, the Review Body on Doctors’ and Dentists’ Remuneration (DDRB) said: ‘Our recommendations this year are net of expenses. Therefore, they do not take into account fluctuations in operating costs.
‘Ensuring that dental practices’ financial sustainability and dental earnings are not affected by such fluctuations is an important responsibility that lies with the governments, in agreeing expenses uplifts.’
Soaring costs
Peter Crooks is deputy chair of the BDA. He believes there will be ‘devastating consequences’ for the country if the government does not step up.
‘Dentists have been handed another real-terms pay cut. It would be foolhardy for officials to apply the same logic to their expenses given the soaring costs of delivering dentistry,’ he said.
‘No frontline health professional should be expected to provide NHS care at a financial loss.
‘Dental inflation is soaring. Many dentists are already reconsidering their future in the NHS. If governments fail to step up it will have devastating consequences for millions of patients.’
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