UK Dental Fluoride Treatment Market Analysis

UK Dental Fluoride Treatment Market Executive Summary

The UK Dental Fluoride Treatment Market is at around $394.4 Mn in 2023 and is projected to reach $449.9 Mn in 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 1.9% during the forecast period 2023-2030.

Dental hygienists and dentists professionally apply high-concentration fluoride products to teeth in order to build enamel and prevent tooth decay. This procedure is known as a dental fluoride treatment. During routine dental appointments, they are usually applied as a gel, foam, varnish, or solution. Fluoride fortifies enamel and increases teeth's resistance to bacterial acid attacks by enhancing the absorption of minerals like calcium and phosphate. It also inhibits the growth of cavity-causing bacteria, slowing or stopping their destructive effects. Fluoride is a valuable tool in the fight against tooth decay and enamel deterioration.

Irritation, allergic reactions, and transient discolouration are possible adverse effects. Fluorosis can result from excessive consumption, especially in young infants. However, because over-the-counter drugs have modest concentrations, it is difficult to reach harmful amounts. Supplement acute poisoning can result in vomiting, diarrhoea, and in extreme circumstances, even death.

Oral health problems remain a significant public health concern in the United Kingdom. According to the data, 45% of adults have untreated dental caries, and 20% have periodontal disease. The prevalence of these issues is even higher among certain demographics, such as 50% of 5-year-olds having untreated dental caries and 30% of those aged 65 and over having periodontal disease. The market therefore is driven by significant factors like growing prevalence of dental caries coupled with increasing awareness regarding oral health and hygiene, increasing the intake of sugary drinks and food, cosmetic dentistry boom, technological advancements etc.

Some of the major players operating in the market are Waken, Dentocare, Colgate, 3M and Unilever among others.

Market Drivers

Increasing awareness and incidence about oral health: There's a growing awareness of dental aesthetics in the UK, including the impact of fluorosis on appearance. Social media, celebrity culture, and increased focus on personal image are driving this trend, potentially increasing demand for treatments. According to the data, 45% of adults have untreated dental caries, and 20% have periodontal disease. Thus, the rise in awareness and incidence rate is boosting the fluorosis treatment market in UK.

Technological advancements: The UK dental sector is adopting advanced technologies for fluorosis treatment, such as micro abrasion and resin infiltration. These less invasive techniques are making treatments more appealing to patients.

Private dentistry growth: The private dental sector in the UK is expanding, offering more cosmetic treatments including those for fluorosis. This growth provides more options for patients seeking aesthetic dental procedures.

Market Restraints

Limited NHS coverage: The National Health Service (NHS) in the UK generally doesn't cover cosmetic dental procedures, including most fluorosis treatments. This lack of public funding can limit access for many patients. Thus, limiting the market growth of fluoride treatment.

Regulatory hurdles: Stringent regulations for dental materials and techniques in the UK may slow the introduction of innovative fluorosis treatments, eventually limiting the market growth rate.

Limited public awareness: Despite growing interest in dental aesthetics, public awareness and concern about dental fluorosis in the UK are generally lower compared to some other countries. Limited awareness among the public about available treatment and preventive measures is downsizing the fluorosis treatment market.

Regulatory Landscape and Reimbursement Scenario

The UK's pharmaceutical regulatory and reimbursement framework for dental consumables is governed by several key bodies and regulations. The Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) and the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) are responsible for ensuring the safety, quality, and efficacy of medicinal products and medical devices, including dental consumables. The Medical Devices Regulations (MDR) and the In Vitro Diagnostic Medical Devices Regulation (IVDR) were adopted in 2017 to enhance the safety and efficacy of medical devices and in vitro diagnostic devices. Additionally, the Pharmaceutical Price Regulation Scheme (PPRS) is a voluntary agreement between the UK government and pharmaceutical companies to control the prices of prescription medicines.

The National Health Service (NHS) provides a comprehensive healthcare system in the UK, including dental care. Patients are charged for certain treatments, but the NHS covers the majority of the costs. The NHS also provides a range of dental services, including routine and emergency treatment. Dental insurance is available for both routine and unplanned treatment, and it can include accident or emergency treatment, both in the UK and abroad. NHS charges for dental treatment are introduced annually, with patients only paying a portion of the total costs, and certain groups are exempt from paying for NHS dental treatment. Private treatment costs vary from practice to practice, and patients must agree on the cost with their dentist before starting treatment.

Competitive Landscape

Key Players

Here are some of the major key players in the UK Dental Fluoride Treatment Market:

• Dentocare
• Waken
• Colgate
• Procter & Gamble
• 3M
• Unilever
• GSK
• VOCO
• Church & Dwight
• Dentsply Sirona