The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has opened a market study into the private dentistry sector in the United Kingdom, aiming to assess how the market operates, how effectively it serves patients, and whether reforms could improve outcomes for consumers.
The study will focus on the supply of private dental services across the UK. According to the authority, this includes a broad range of treatments provided outside the public healthcare system, such as preventative care, clinically necessary procedures and cosmetic dentistry. By examining these services, the CMA intends to gain a clearer understanding of competitive conditions and the functioning of the private dental care market.
Market studies are one of the CMA’s tools for evaluating whether specific sectors operate efficiently and competitively. Through this investigation, the regulator will examine whether current market dynamics are delivering good value, transparency and accessibility for patients who choose to obtain dental treatment privately.
As part of the inquiry, the CMA is seeking input from both consumers and dental professionals. Patients are invited to share their experiences with privately purchased dental treatments, including care obtained for themselves or their family members. Dental practitioners and other industry participants are also encouraged to provide insights into how the market operates in practice.
The authority emphasised that gathering a broad range of perspectives will be crucial to understanding the current state of the sector. According to Daniel Rawling, a director at the CMA, feedback from patients and professionals across the country will help the regulator evaluate how the private dentistry market is functioning and identify areas where improvements may be needed.
In parallel with the consultation process, the CMA has published guidance for consumers explaining how they can contribute to the study, as well as a roadmap outlining the key stages and expected milestones of the project.
The findings of the study could inform potential policy recommendations or further regulatory action if the CMA identifies concerns affecting competition or consumer outcomes in the private dentistry market.