Britain's competition watchdog has launched a review into the £8.4bn private dentistry market after the price of an initial consultation rose by more than 23% between 2022 and 2024, reaching £80. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) said it wanted to ensure the market was 'working well for UK consumers', as one in five people in Great Britain sought private dental care in 2024 due to difficulties accessing NHS treatment.
The CMA noted that demand for private services had risen sharply, with independent data showing routine check-up prices for existing patients had increased by over 14% to £55. The regulator stressed that the review was 'not a criticism of clinicians or the care they provide, but an examination of how the market is working for consumers'.
Sarah Cardell, CMA chief executive, expressed concern that many patients may 'be uncertain about costs, availability, treatment options and what they're entitled to'. She added: 'For some, turning to private dentistry is a choice – but for many, it's a necessity. 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.'
The review follows a call from Chancellor Rachel Reeves in November 2025, who urged the CMA to investigate the industry to ease the cost of living, citing 'the scourge of hidden costs, lack of transparency and overtreatment'. The CMA will examine issues such as finding a dentist, understanding prices, and accessing urgent treatment, and has launched an online guide to help patients.
The British Dental Association (BDA) said it would help the CMA understand the 'complex realities of delivering private dentistry'. It noted that dentists with NHS contracts were providing care at a loss, with the service reliant on a cross-subsidy of over £400m a year from private activity to break even. BDA chair Eddie Crouch said the body intended to 'spell out the facts', adding: 'Those left without options, who have felt forced to go private, are there entirely because of choices made by the Treasury.'
