According to Christie & Co’s latest Business Outlook 2026 report, the sector is gearing up for another transformative year. Their predictions point to renewed confidence, shifting buyer behaviour, digital and AI acceleration, and the ongoing workforce challenge that continues to shape the sector.
Christie & Co surveyed dental professionals across the UK about their expectations for the year ahead. A majority (59%) reported feeling positive about the outlook, while only 13% expressed concerns. Notably, 58% said they were considering either selling or acquiring a practice in the coming year, signalling strong anticipated activity across the market.
So, what exactly should we expect in 2026?
Independent practices still lead but corporates are stepping back in
Independents remained the dominant buyers in 2025, accounting for a sizeable share of transactions, while corporates paused to recalibrate. But Christie & Co expect corporates to re emerge in 2026 with renewed appetite, especially for private-led practices with strong operational resilience.
High performing NHS practices
After tighter margins caused by inflation and workforce strain, some corporate and larger independent buyers are re examining NHS practices, particularly those delivering high performance and strong contract stability. These assets may once again become attractive but expect heightened due diligence and scrutiny.
Small groups remain attractive
Small groups continue to stand out as strategic acquisitions: they offer instant scale, multi-practice operational maturity, and uplifted EBITDA in a single transaction. Private equity is also circling these opportunities, especially where there’s room to build a larger platform.
Mixed model practices
Christie & Co couldn’t be clearer: mixed-income models are the strongest hedge against instability. Private practices continue to command premium valuations, but NHS providers with diversified income streams are rising in attractiveness too. These models support resilience, sustainability, and workforce retention – all critical factors as cost pressures persist.
AI, CRM and digital workflows are no longer optional
Digital transformation is no longer something practices can “wait and see” on. Christie & Co predict that by 2026, AI-powered workflows, integrated CRM systems, and automated administrative processes will be standard across practices. From patient engagement to operational efficiency, digital maturity is becoming a key driver of value.
Workforce pressure points
Recruitment and retention remain the defining challenge, especially in NHS led practices, where contractual rigidity limits flexibility around pay and staffing models. Christie & Co highlight that immigration rule changes, rising wage costs and shifting dentist behaviour will continue to place strain on practice delivery.
The new Thistlemoor Smiles Dental Unit – Integrated medical-dental care
While Christie & Co’s predictions paint a picture of where the market is heading, some parts of the country are already delivering new models of preventative dental care which underpin the NHS 10 year plan.
The newly opened Thistlemoor Smiles Dental Unit in Peterborough is a standout example of what integrated, prevention-focused care can look like. Based within Thistlemoor Medical Centre, the unit brings dental services directly into a GP practice, representing a new medical–dental model designed especially for vulnerable communities.
The new integrated model aims to break down cultural, linguistic and access barriers by offering joined-up care in a setting patients already trust. It uses a population health management approach to identify at-risk patients earlier, intervene sooner and reduce long-term oral health inequalities.
Dr Neil Modha, GP Partner at Thistlemoor, comments:
“This is not just a dental unit – it is a new way of thinking about healthcare.”
If the last few years were about stabilising, 2026 points to a clear change in momentum in the dental market
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