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New research from Bupa Dental Insurance reveals a growing disconnect between what employees expect from their benefits package and what employers are currently offering. A striking two-thirds (66%) of employees report that their employer does not provide dental cover—despite strong demand for it.
This gap presents a clear opportunity for HR leaders to enhance their benefits offering in a way that directly supports employee wellbeing and boosts talent attraction and retention.
Dental Cover: A high-value, high-demand benefit
The findings show that four in five employees (79%) would opt into dental cover if it were available through their employer. Furthermore, 23% rank dental cover among the top three benefits that would make an employer more attractive—placing it alongside flexible working and health insurance.
Barriers to dental care are impacting health
Cost remains a major barrier to dental care:
- 17% of employees say they simply can’t afford it.
- 16% cite the cost of appointments or treatment as their biggest obstacle.
As a result, only 41% of employees visit the dentist regularly, and just 28% consider oral health part of their overall physical health—highlighting a widespread lack of awareness about the connection between dental and general wellbeing.
The role of employers in driving better health outcomes
Encouragingly, 53% of employees say they would visit the dentist more regularly if dental cover were provided by their employer. This suggests that employer-sponsored dental insurance could play a pivotal role in improving health outcomes and reducing absenteeism.
For employers looking to address this gap, Bupa Dental suggests focusing on a few key areas:
- Addressing cost barriers:
Offering dental insurance can directly remove the financial obstacles that prevent employees from seeking regular care.
- Increasing health engagement:
By providing a benefit that encourages employees to visit the dentist, employers can create a culture of proactive health management.
- Enhancing employer brand:
Dental coverage competes closely with other top-tier benefits, demonstrating a commitment to employees’ well-being and strengthening recruitment and retention efforts.
Bupa’s response: Enhancing dental benefits for employers and employees
To support both employers and their teams, Bupa Dental Insurance is enhancing its Dental Plan. Most preventative treatments at Bupa Dental Care practices will now be included—covering common claims like check-ups and scale and polish treatments. With around 70% of claims relating to preventative care, this update makes dental health more accessible and removes the worry of out-of-pocket costs.
About the research:
The research was conducted by Censuswide, among a sample of 2,000 respondents. The data was collected between 20.08.2025 – 28.08.2025. Censuswide abides by and employs members of the Market Research Society and follows the MRS code of conduct and ESOMAR principles. Censuswide is also a member of the British Polling Council.
Find out more about Bupa Dental Insurance – here.
