1. Dental Chairs and Delivery Units

The dental chair is the heart of any treatment room, and its quality can significantly impact both clinical workflow and patient experience. Entry-level models may be manually operated with basic functionality, but mid-range and premium units include features like electric positioning, integrated delivery systems, and ergonomic designs to support better posture and reduce fatigue during long procedures.

• Basic Dental Chair (manual controls): £10,000 – £15,000

• Mid-Range Chair (integrated instruments, electric adjustments): £15,000 – £30,000

• Premium Chair (fully digital, programmable, luxurious design): £30,000 – £50,000

Additional Setup Costs:

• Dentist & Nurse Operating Stools: £500 – £1,500 each

• LED Overhead Light System: £1,000 – £3,000

Investing in a high-quality chair system ensures durability, patient comfort, and compliance with hygiene standards, all while helping you deliver more efficient care.

2. Imaging and Diagnostic Equipment

Modern diagnostics play a crucial role in treatment planning, early detection, and patient education. Whether it’s routine intraoral X-rays or advanced 3D imaging for surgical cases, the right equipment can elevate your clinical capabilities and streamline workflows.

• Intraoral X-Ray Unit: £3,000 – £8,000

• Digital OPG (Panoramic X-Ray): £15,000 – £30,000

• CBCT Scanner (3D Imaging for implants and endo): £40,000 – £75,000

• Intraoral Camera: £1,000 – £3,000

High-resolution imaging tools help build patient trust, increase case acceptance, and improve overall treatment outcomes. While the upfront costs can be high, the clinical value and patient communication benefits are well worth the investment.

3. Sterilisation and Infection Control Equipment

Strict infection control protocols are a legal and ethical responsibility, especially in a post-pandemic environment. To meet Care Quality Commission (CQC) and HTM 01-05 standards, practices need reliable sterilisation and decontamination systems.

• Autoclave (Vacuum Steriliser): £5,000 – £10,000

• Washer Disinfector (automated cleaning): £5,000 – £12,000

• Ultrasonic Cleaner (manual instrument pre-cleaning): £1,000 – £2,500

• Air Purification and Ventilation Systems: £2,000 – £5,000

Infection control equipment is not just a compliance necessity, it protects your patients and team while demonstrating your commitment to safety and professionalism.

4. Handpieces and Clinical Instruments

Handpieces and small equipment are used daily for everything from routine cleanings to complex restorative work. Quality, durability, and ergonomic design are key considerations when selecting these tools, as they directly affect your efficiency and clinical precision.

• High-Speed Handpieces: £600 – £1,500 each

• Low-Speed Handpieces: £500 – £1,200 each

• Ultrasonic Scaler Unit: £1,000 – £3,000

• LED Curing Light (for composites): £500 – £1,200

Many practices choose to invest in multiple sets of handpieces to avoid treatment delays during sterilisation cycles, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted workflows.

5. Digital Dentistry & CAD/CAM Solutions

Digital dentistry is transforming how practices diagnose, treat, and engage with patients. From digital impressions to in-house restorations, CAD/CAM technologies provide faster turnaround times, increased accuracy, and improved patient experiences.

• Intraoral Scanner (digital impressions): £15,000 – £35,000

• Milling Machine (same-day crowns and inlays): £40,000 – £80,000

• 3D Printer (models, guides, splints): £5,000 – £20,000

While these tools require a higher upfront investment, they often lead to long-term cost savings, more predictable outcomes, and stronger competitive positioning.

6. Practice Management Software and IT Infrastructure

An efficient dental practice depends on smart software and IT systems to handle patient data, compliance, communication, and daily operations. With more practices moving toward paperless workflows, digital systems are no longer optional - they’re essential.

• Practice Management Software (e.g. SOE, Dentally): £2,000 – £10,000 (initial setup)

• Computer Workstations: £800 – £1,500 each

• Cloud Backup and Data Security Systems: £500 – £3,000

• Patient Engagement Tools (text/email reminders, online booking): £1,000 – £5,000

Upgrading your digital infrastructure improves efficiency, enhances patient communication, and helps maintain compliance with GDPR and medical data regulations.

7. Laboratory and Prosthetics Equipment

For practices offering in-house prosthetic services or minor adjustments, basic lab tools can reduce reliance on third-party labs, lower turnaround times, and improve service delivery.

• Dental Lab Bench Tools: £3,000 – £8,000

• Vacuum Former (retainers, trays, bleaching): £500 – £2,000

Having lab capabilities on-site is particularly beneficial for orthodontic and cosmetic practices that require custom appliances and quick delivery.

8. Clinical Consumables and Initial Stock

Even with all the high-tech gear, no practice can operate without consumables. These include everything from surgical kits to PPE and impression materials. It's important to factor in a starting inventory for your first few months of operation.

• Surgical Instrument Kits: £2,000 – £10,000

• Composite Materials & Bonding Agents: £500 – £2,000

• Impression Materials: £500 – £1,500

• PPE, Gloves, Gowns, and Disposables: £1,000 – £5,000

These costs are often overlooked but form a crucial part of your operational readiness. Planning your stock in advance ensures smoother onboarding and patient care from day one.

How EP Finance Can Help Fund Your Dental Equipment

Investing in top-tier dental equipment is essential for long-term success, but the upfront cost can be overwhelming, especially for new practices or those scaling up. At EP Finance, we offer a range of tailored Dental Practice Finance solutions that help you spread the cost of equipment over time without putting pressure on your day-to-day cash flow.

Whether you're starting from scratch or expanding your capabilities with advanced tech, we can help you access:

• Equipment finance and leasing with competitive terms

• Full-practice fit-out funding packages

• Fast approvals with minimal paperwork

• Finance structures that align with your practice’s revenue cycle

Our team works closely with dentists and specialists across the UK, bringing years of experience in healthcare finance to every project.

Take the Next Step with EP Finance

Your dental equipment is more than just a purchase, it’s an investment in patient care, clinical quality, and business growth. If you’re preparing to launch a new practice or upgrade your existing one, EP Finance is here to help you do it with confidence and financial clarity.

Contact us today to explore your options, get expert guidance, and secure funding that matches your goals and budget.