The UK's Competition and Markets Authority has begun a review of private dentistry services across all four UK nations, including Northern Ireland.

Demand for private dental care has increased in recent years. The CMA will assess price rises relative to inflation, business practices, complaint handling, and regulatory structures.

The review accounts for variations between UK regions and involves coordination with devolved administrations.

CMA chief executive Sarah Cardell stated that dentist visits support health and wellbeing, but patients often lack clarity on costs, availability, options, and rights. She noted that private care represents a choice for some and a necessity for others, calling for patient input on experiences to evaluate market operations.