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UK Dental Firms Profit Over £1 Billion Amid Probe
23 Nov
Summary
- Four major dental firms earned £1.2 billion in gross profits over two years.
- Gross profits for these firms increased by 20% year-on-year.
- The Competition and Markets Authority is investigating rising dental costs.
Four leading UK dental corporations, including My Dentist, PortmanDentex, Rodericks Dental, and Bupa Dental Services, have reported a combined gross profit of £1.2 billion over the past two years. Their profits saw a significant 20% increase annually between 2023 and 2024. This financial success unfolds as the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) initiates a formal investigation into the dental sector.
The CMA's inquiry stems from widespread concerns about escalating dental treatment costs, hidden fees, and a general lack of transparency. An earlier investigation highlighted that private equity-owned practices charge significantly more for common procedures like white fillings compared to NHS rates. This comes at a time when NHS dental services are facing a crisis, with only 40% of adults having accessed an NHS dentist in the last two years, leading to 'dental deserts' in many areas.
Industry bodies suggest that the shortage of dental professionals is a primary driver of rising costs and inflationary pressures across the sector. The Association of Dental Groups has warned that without an increase in the number of practicing dentists, these cost increases are likely to persist. The CMA is currently developing a proposal for its board regarding the next steps in its market study.
