UK Government Orders Investigation into Costs and Practices of Private Dentistry
The UK Government has announced a major intervention into the dental sector, with the Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, ordering an investigation into the costs and practices of private dentistry. The Chancellor has written to the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), the UK’s competition watchdog, urging it to launch a market study amid growing public concern over surging prices and perceived lack of transparency.
This move comes as the cost-of-living crisis continues to pressure families, and widespread failures in NHS dental access push more people toward the private sector, often at significant financial strain.
The Core Concerns Driving the Investigation
The government’s decision to involve the CMA is driven by reports and public complaints highlighting specific issues within the private dental market:
Surging Prices: Data suggests that fees for common private procedures have seen steep increases in recent years. Simple procedures like tooth extractions and white fillings have reportedly jumped by as much as 32%.
Lack of Transparency: The Chancellor cited "hidden costs" and insufficient clarity regarding the price and quality of treatment as major issues impacting patients.
Overtreatment: Concerns have been raised that patients may be subject to unnecessary or excessive treatment plans.
Rachel Reeves stated that the "scourge of hidden costs, lack of transparency and overtreatment has blighted families in need of dental treatment for too long," calling for "urgent action" to help reduce prices.
The Dental Profession's Strong Response
The decision has been met with fierce criticism from the British Dental Association (BDA), which strongly disputes the government’s approach.
"Utterly Perverse": The BDA Chair, Eddie Crouch, labeled the call for an investigation as "utterly perverse."
Covering Costs: The BDA argues that the rise in private fees is a necessary consequence of surging overheads, including inflation in energy, materials, and staff costs—some of which, they claim, are a result of government policies.
Cross-Subsidy: Crucially, the BDA pointed out that the private income earned by mixed practices is essential, claiming it cross-subsidizes loss-making NHS treatments. Private work is often what keeps NHS dentistry financially viable.
The CMA is now exploring the merits of launching a full market study. Any findings could have a significant impact across the UK, potentially reshaping the balance between NHS and private dental provision.
Original Article Details
Original Title: Government orders investigation into costs and practices of private dentistry
Source: Dentistry.co.uk
Publication Date: November 19, 2025