The Competition and Markets Authority has launched a major review into the private dentistry market, examining everything from access and pricing to consumer redress, as demand for private dental care continues to rise sharply across Great Britain.
The review, announced today, will assess how well the £8.4 billion private dentistry sector is working for patients, covering both essential dental care and cosmetic treatments. The CMA is calling for evidence from consumers, dental practices and stakeholders across the UK.
Demand for private dentistry has increased significantly, with 1 in 5 people using private dental care in 2024. Average prices have also risen steeply between 2022 and 2024:
- Initial consultations: up 23% to £80
- Routine check‑ups: up 14% to £55
By 2025, private dentistry represented 69% of the UK dental market, with research suggesting that difficulties accessing NHS dental services are a key factor driving patients towards private care.
The CMA warns that consumers often face complexity, limited price transparency, and inconsistent information when choosing a provider or treatment – challenges that make the market difficult to navigate, especially for vulnerable groups.
The CMA has published its proposed scope and is now seeking views on several critical areas, including:
1. Access to private dentistry
2. Consumer choice and experience
3. Treatment pricing
4. Business behaviour
5. Competition
6. Complaints and redress
7. Sector regulation
The CMA emphasises that the review is not a criticism of dental professionals, whose expertise and dedication are widely recognised. Instead, it aims to understand how the market system – pricing, availability, information and regulation – is functioning for the public.
CMA Chief Executive Sarah Cardell commented:
“Going to the dentist is an important part of health and wellbeing, yet we’re concerned many may be uncertain about costs, availability, treatment options and what they’re entitled to.
“For some, turning to private dentistry is a choice – but for many, it’s a necessity. People need clear, accessible information at the right time so they can make the right decisions for themselves and their families.
“We want to hear directly from people across the UK about their experiences – good or bad – to help us build a clear picture of how this market is working in practice.”
Dentistry is a devolved policy area, meaning access, funding models and regulatory frameworks differ across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. The CMA will work closely with all four governments to ensure its findings reflect these variations.
The review aligns with the CMA’s 2026–2029 strategy, which prioritises action in essential household spending areas, including healthcare, and aims to strengthen consumer protection in day‑to‑day markets.
The CMA is inviting evidence from patients, dental professionals, commissioners, regulators and representative bodies. Submissions will shape the final scope and direction of the study.
Image credit: iStock
