Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

CMA Investigates UK Private Dentistry Amid Rising Prices

3/5/2026

46 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has launched an investigation into the UK private dentistry market.
Prices rose up to 22% from 2022 to 2024, CMA data show.
Dentists earn about double from private work versus NHS work, the British Dental Association says.
Many dentists struggle to meet NHS contracts, and over £450 million was returned to the NHS in 2024-25.

1 of 1

Story summary

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has launched an investigation into the UK private dentistry market.
Prices rose up to 22% from 2022 to 2024, CMA data show.
Dentists earn about double from private work versus NHS work, the British Dental Association says.
Many dentists struggle to meet NHS contracts, and over £450 million was returned to the NHS in 2024-25.