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The UK Competition and Markets Authority has opened a study into the country’s £8bn private dentistry market over mounting concerns that the industry may be exploiting long NHS waiting times to push up prices.
The CMA study will include a review of how prices for private dental care have changed compared with inflation, whether private practices engage in any unfair or anti-competitive practices, and complaints handling in the sector, the antitrust regulator said on Thursday.
The decision comes after chancellor Rachel Reeves wrote to the CMA in November asking the agency to look at the private dentistry market, including competition between providers and the ability of consumers to get good value for money.
NHS waiting lists for dentist appointments have reached record highs in recent years, leading to a deterioration in oral health, particularly in children. The NHS said last summer that tooth decay was the number one cause of admission to hospital in England for children aged five to nine.
Yet, the number of dentists in England has actually risen every year since at least 2022. In January, there were 47,022 dentists on the General Dental Council register, up from 42,215 four years ago. The data raises concerns that dentists are increasingly seeking private work over NHS employment.
Private dentistry accounted for two-thirds of the market last year.
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Prices for procedures such as tooth extraction rose by 32 per cent between 2022 and 2024, while a 30-minute scale and polish has risen from an average £65 to £75, according to research from myTribe insurance, a website providing information about private healthcare and insurance. Initial consultations rose by over 23 per cent to £80.
“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,” said Sarah Cardell, the CMA’s chief executive.
Cardell added: “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.”
The CMA must issue its findings by March 2027. The agency could recommend the government make changes to the regulation of the sector, open a more in-depth market investigation, or issue new guidance to ensure businesses know their obligations.