The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has initiated an inquiry into the burgeoning £8 billion private dentistry sector, driven by a staggering 25% rise in consultation fees over the past two years. The review comes at a time when one in five individuals in Great Britain has turned to private dental care, largely due to an inability to access NHS services.
Rising Costs and Access Issues
Between 2022 and 2024, the cost of an initial dental consultation surged to £80, reflecting an increase of over 23%. Routine check-ups for existing patients also saw a notable rise, climbing by more than 14% to £55. The CMA emphasises that this investigation is not a critique of dental professionals but rather a comprehensive examination of how effectively the market serves consumers.
The backdrop to this review is an NHS dental service in turmoil. Many dentists are opting to withdraw from NHS contracts, citing insufficient fees that fail to cover operational costs. The British Dental Association (BDA) has reported alarming instances where individuals resorted to extreme measures, such as self-extraction, after being unable to secure emergency dental care in England.
A Shift Towards Private Care
The surge in private dental services has raised concerns about transparency and accessibility. Sarah Cardell, CEO of the CMA, acknowledged that while some individuals may choose private care, for many, it has become 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,” Cardell stated.
As of 2025, private dentistry accounted for more than two-thirds of the market, with the industry recently valued at £8.4 billion. Last November, Labour MP Rachel Reeves called for a review of the sector, urging the CMA to address the “scourge of hidden costs, lack of transparency, and overtreatment” that many patients face.
Addressing Consumer Concerns
The CMA’s review will delve into key issues such as the challenges of finding a dentist, understanding treatment costs, and navigating urgent care options. In response to the growing demand for clarity, the CMA has also launched an online guide aimed at assisting consumers in making informed decisions regarding their dental care.
While the CMA has stressed that this review is not an indictment of the quality of care provided by clinicians, it could prompt significant changes in how the industry is regulated. The BDA has expressed its commitment to aiding the CMA in understanding the complexities of delivering private dental care, highlighting that NHS dentists are often operating at a loss. The BDA argues that the NHS is heavily reliant on a £400 million annual cross-subsidy from private dentistry to maintain its operations.
The Bigger Picture
Eddie Crouch, chair of the BDA, has been vocal about the underlying issues driving many patients towards private care. He described the government’s call for an inquiry into pricing practices as a superficial response to its failure to adequately fund NHS services. “Those left without options, who have felt forced to go private, are there entirely because of choices made by the Treasury,” Crouch stated, emphasising the need for systemic change.
Why it Matters
The CMA’s investigation into the private dentistry market highlights a critical moment for healthcare in the UK, particularly as the NHS continues to grapple with funding challenges and accessibility issues. As more individuals turn to private care out of necessity rather than choice, addressing the transparency and affordability of dental services could have far-reaching implications for public health and well-being in the country. With the potential for regulatory changes on the horizon, this inquiry may serve as a pivotal step towards a more equitable healthcare system.
