Competition and Markets Authority’s investigation into private dentistry

At a time when NHS dentistry is in crisis, the Government's decision to focus on private dentistry is perverse. We've set out the facts.

Private dentistry makes a significant contribution to the oral health of the nation, with millions of patients actively seeking private care, as well as it offering inspiring and rewarding career opportunities for dentists.

We’ve told the CMA:

The private dental market functions well, with competition and patient choice; national polling reveals high patient satisfaction. Patients are just that – patients and not consumers.

There is a clear regulatory framework that requires dentists to act in the interests of patients and to be transparent on costs and treatment options. Most practices provide both NHS and private care. In our ongoing conversations with Governments, we’ve made it clear that NHS dentistry must be able to stand on its own two feet financially.

Market forces

Understanding the context in which private dentistry operates is essential to the CMA’s investigation. Over six million adults express a clear preference for private care.

Patient-centred care

Dentists and the small businesses they own and run to deliver care have professionalism at their heart.

The CMA’s investigation will be ongoing throughout 2026, with the final report due March 2027. We will ensure that members delivering private care around the UK are represented.