The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) launched a significant private dental services market study on 5 March 2026.
This review examines whether the growing private dentistry sector is working effectively for consumers amid rising demand driven by NHS access challenges. With the private segment now dominating the market, the study could shape pricing transparency, competition, and patient protections for years to come.
Private dental services reportedly accounted for over two-thirds (69%) of the UK dental market in 2025, with the sector valued at approximately £8.4 billion. Many patients have shifted to private care due to difficulties securing NHS appointments, leading to concerns about affordability, choice, and value for money.
The CMA is investigating whether competition is functioning well across preventative, clinically necessary, and cosmetic treatments. Key areas of scrutiny include how easily patients can find and switch dentists, the transparency of pricing and treatment options, potential business practices that may limit competition, and the effectiveness of complaint and redress mechanisms. The study also considers the broader regulatory environment governing private dental providers.
This private dental services market study follows calls from government figures highlighting issues such as hidden costs, limited price transparency, and potential overtreatment. The CMA aims to determine if interventions are needed to improve outcomes for consumers whilst maintaining a competitive market.
The CMA’s scope covers several consumer pain points:
Access and choice: How straightforward is it for patients to locate suitable private dentists and compare providers?
Pricing and transparency: Are treatment costs clear upfront? Do patients receive sufficient information to make informed decisions about value?
Competition dynamics: Are there barriers preventing effective rivalry between independent practices, corporate groups, and other providers? The study looks at business tactics and market behaviours.
Consumer experience and protections: What happens when things go wrong? Are redress systems robust enough?
Evidence gathering is underway, with calls for views from both consumers and dental professionals. The CMA has also published practical advice to help patients navigate private dental costs in the short term. The final report, including any recommendations for remedies, is scheduled for publication by March 2027.
Stakeholders have opportunities to engage through consultations, roundtables, and submissions, making this a critical period for the industry.
For dental practices, the private dental services market study signals potential changes in how services are marketed, priced, and delivered. Enhanced transparency requirements or new rules on information provision could emerge, affecting both independent clinics and larger chains. Practices that already prioritise clear communication and fair competition may be better positioned, whilst others might need to review their policies.
Patients stand to benefit from greater clarity on costs and treatment options, potentially reducing the risk of unexpected bills or unsuitable procedures. However, outcomes can depend on the CMA’s findings—remedies could range from voluntary industry improvements to formal recommendations for regulatory or legislative action.
At The Competition Lawyers, we will continue to monitor this sector as part of the CMA investigations, market studies, and competition compliance. Practices and businesses must engage constructively with regulators whilst protecting commercial interests.
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