CMA Private Dentistry Investigation 2026: what it means for patients
The CMA process is a market study into private dental services. This hub explains the official timeline, what patients can do now, and why possible remedies must not be treated as confirmed.
Key facts
The Competition and Markets Authority launched a market study into private dental services in the UK on 5 March 2026. The study covers pricing, access, consumer choice and competition in a private dentistry market the CMA launch materials valued at GBP 8.4 billion in 2023 to 2024, with a statutory deadline of 4 March 2027.
The official scope covers how the private dentistry market works, how well it performs for consumers and how it could work better. NHS dentistry is not the standalone focus, but NHS access can affect private choices.
Timeline and key dates
Official launch date, engagement windows, expected consultation and final-report deadline.
View timelineWhat might change
Vet-investigation precedent explained cautiously as possible outcomes, not predictions.
Read precedentWhat to do now
Clear pricing, written treatment plans and alternative options before private treatment.
Patient actionsOfficial sources
Private dental services market study case pageHow to engage with the CMA market studyCMA launches review of private dentistryCMA veterinary market investigation remediesPrivate dentistry study consumer pageUpdate log
CMA launched the private dental services market study.
CMA held the launch webinar listed in its engagement roadmap.
CMA updated market-study engagement guidance.
Target end of evidence gathering and analysis period, according to CMA guidance.
Expected consultation on emerging thinking and remedies.
Statutory deadline for the market study.
Is this a confirmed dental price-cap programme?
No. It is currently a CMA market study. Possible remedies may be consulted on later, but specific dental remedies should not be treated as confirmed.
Does the study cover NHS dentistry?
The focus is private dental services. The CMA says it will consider how NHS systems influence private dental choices and availability.
What can patients do now?
Ask for clear pricing upfront, get a written treatment plan and ask about alternative treatment options before agreeing to private care.