
As an FCA-authorised private medical insurance broker in the UK, WeCovr has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, giving us unparalleled insight into what matters most to you. This guide cuts through the jargon to reveal the best PMI options for keeping your teeth and eyes in top condition.
Finding the right private medical insurance (PMI) can feel like a maze of complex terms and conditions. When you add dental and optical benefits into the mix, it can become even more confusing. Yet, with NHS waiting lists for dentistry reaching critical levels and the cost of private check-ups and treatments rising, securing comprehensive cover has never been more important.
In 2026, the demand for private health cover that includes routine care like dental check-ups, hygiene appointments, new glasses, and contact lenses is set to soar. Many people are surprised to learn that standard PMI policies often don't include these benefits. They are typically available as an optional 'add-on', which you can choose to include for an additional premium.
This guide is designed to be your definitive resource. We will break down which leading UK insurers offer the most valuable dental and optical packages, how they work, and what you need to look out for.
While PMI's core purpose is to cover the cost of private treatment for acute medical conditions, overlooking your oral and visual health can be a false economy. Here's why integrating these benefits into your policy is a smart move.
The strain on NHS services is well-documented. According to recent NHS data, millions of adults in England have been unable to secure an appointment with an NHS dentist over the past two years. This has led to what many are calling a "dental desert" in parts of the country.
Paying for dental and optical care out-of-pocket can add up significantly. A routine check-up can cost £50-£100, a hygiene appointment a similar amount, and treatments like fillings or crowns can run into hundreds or even thousands of pounds.
A good PMI add-on works on a 'cashback' basis. You pay for your treatment upfront, then claim a portion (or all) of the cost back from your insurer, up to your annual limit. This makes budgeting for your family's health predictable and manageable.
Your health is interconnected. Regular eye tests can detect early signs of serious conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and even brain tumours. Similarly, poor oral health is linked to a range of systemic issues, including heart disease and respiratory infections.
Investing in routine dental and optical care is not just about a brighter smile or clearer vision; it's a crucial part of a proactive healthcare strategy.
Before we compare providers, it's essential to understand the mechanics. This isn't a "one size fits all" benefit; it's a flexible option tailored to your needs.
Your core PMI policy covers things like specialist consultations, diagnostic tests (MRI, CT scans), and hospital treatment for acute conditions. Dental and optical cover is an extra module you choose to bolt on. This means:
For routine care, the cashback model is by far the most common. The process is simple:
Direct settlement is rare for routine care but may be used for major, pre-authorised dental surgery that takes place in a hospital.
Every dental and optical plan comes with an annual benefit limit. This is the maximum amount of money you can claim back in a single policy year. These limits are usually broken down by category.
Example of a Mid-Range Dental Plan:
| Benefit Category | Annual Limit | What It Covers |
|---|---|---|
| Routine Dental | £250 | Check-ups, scale and polish, X-rays, minor fillings. |
| Major Dental | £750 | Crowns, bridges, root canals, dentures. |
| Dental Accidents | £5,000 | Treatment needed as a direct result of an external injury. |
Optical benefits are often simpler, with a single annual limit (e.g., £200) that you can use towards eye tests, prescription glasses, or contact lenses.
It is a fundamental principle of UK private medical insurance that it is designed to cover new, acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy. PMI does not cover chronic conditions (illnesses that require long-term management, like diabetes or glaucoma) or pre-existing conditions you had in the years before your policy began. This rule applies to dental and optical add-ons as well. For example, you cannot buy a policy to cover a root canal for a problem you already know about.
Here, we compare the offerings from the UK's leading private health insurers. Please note that benefits, terms, and premiums change, and this reflects the market as we see it for 2026. For a precise, up-to-date comparison tailored to you, it's always best to speak with an expert broker like WeCovr.
| Provider | Dental & Optical Add-on? | Typical Routine Dental Limit | Typical Optical Limit | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bupa | Yes (Dental Cover 10 & 20) | £300 - £700 | £150 - £300 | Strong focus on preventative care and extensive network. |
| AXA Health | Yes (Dentist & Optician Cashback) | £200 - £400 | £200 | Simple, clear cashback structure with good value. |
| Aviva | Yes (Dental & Optical add-on) | £250 - £1,000+ | £200 | Highly flexible tiers, allowing for comprehensive cover. |
| Vitality | Yes (Optical, Hearing & Dental) | £400 (plus major dental) | £300+ | Rewards healthy living with boosted benefits. |
Bupa is one of the most recognised names in UK health insurance. Their dental and optical options are robust and well-regarded. They typically offer two main levels of dental cover as part of their Bupa By You policy.
Best for: Individuals and families looking for a trusted brand with a strong preventative focus and clear, structured benefits.
AXA Health's approach is often praised for its clarity. Their "Dentist and Optician Cashback" option is a single, easy-to-understand add-on to their Personal Health plan.
Best for: Those who appreciate a simple, flexible cashback system without complex tiers or rules.
Aviva's "Healthier Solutions" policy is known for its modularity, and the Dental and Optical add-on is no exception. It allows you to build a plan that precisely matches your requirements.
Best for: Anyone wanting to fine-tune their cover, especially those who may need major dental work or are seeking cover for orthodontics.
Vitality has disrupted the UK private health cover market by linking insurance to healthy living. Their "Optical, Hearing and Dental Cover" option is unique.
Best for: Active individuals and families who are motivated to engage in healthy habits and want to be rewarded for their efforts with tangible financial benefits.
With so many variables, from annual limits and cashback percentages to provider-specific rules, choosing the right plan can be overwhelming. This is where an independent, expert PMI broker adds immense value.
At WeCovr, we don't work for the insurers; we work for you. Our service is provided at no cost to you.
As a WeCovr client, you also gain complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, to support your health goals. Furthermore, clients who purchase PMI or life insurance through us are often eligible for discounts on other types of cover, providing even greater value. Our high customer satisfaction ratings are a testament to our commitment to providing exceptional service.
Insurance is a safety net, but the best strategy is always prevention. Here are some simple, effective habits to protect your teeth and eyes.
This is a common and valid question. Standalone dental plans (offered by providers like Denplan or other insurers) are an alternative to a PMI add-on.
| Aspect | PMI Add-On | Standalone Dental Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Convenience | High. One policy, one provider, one monthly payment. | Lower. A separate policy to manage and pay for. |
| Cost | Often more cost-effective when bundled with PMI. | Can be more expensive for equivalent cover, but not always. |
| Coverage Limits | Can be lower than top-tier standalone plans. | Often offer higher annual limits, especially for major work. |
| Provider Choice | Complete freedom to see any registered dentist. | Some plans (capitation) are linked to a specific dentist. |
| Simplicity | Claim process is integrated with your main health insurer. | A separate claims process to learn. |
The Verdict?
A WeCovr advisor can run a cost-benefit analysis for you, comparing both routes to help you make an informed decision.
Choosing the right private medical insurance is one of the most important decisions you can make for your and your family's health. Adding dental and optical benefits provides peace of mind and ensures you can access high-quality routine care without delay.
Don't navigate the complexities of the UK PMI market alone. Let our expert advisors do the heavy lifting for you.
Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote and find the perfect health, dental, and optical cover for your needs.






