2025: A Landmark Year for the Business of Dentistry
As we step into 2025, the dental profession stands on the cusp of transformative change. The opportunities ahead are vast, fuelled by innovation, strategic growth, and the unwavering dedication of dental professionals across the UK. At Frank Taylor & Associates, with over 36 years of experience supporting dental practices, we believe this year holds exceptional potential for practice owners to redefine success and drive their businesses forward.
The Growth of the Sector
The dental sector continues its steady expansion, driven by the increasing demand for high-quality, patient-centred care. Practices are flourishing by adopting a business-focused approach—whether through expanding services, optimising operations, or opening new locations. Understanding the financial intricacies of a practice has become more crucial than ever. Growth charts, forecasting, and data-driven insights are no longer optional; they are the blueprints for long-term success.
Smart Financial Tools and Innovations
2025 brings with it an array of cutting-edge tools that harness the power of artificial intelligence to support practice management. From identifying the most profitable treatments to flagging inefficiencies and predicting patient retention trends, these tools offer actionable insights that empower practice owners. The ability to make informed, strategic decisions is helping dentists maximise profitability and secure the future of their practices.
Education, Mentorship, and Peer Networking
This year is also set to see an increased emphasis on education and mentorship programmes tailored to the unique challenges of running a dental practice. From mastering leadership to implementing effective marketing strategies, these initiatives are equipping dentists with the skills needed to thrive in a competitive market. Peer networking is another key trend, providing a platform for professionals to connect, share experiences, and gain valuable insights from one another.
Practice Sales and Acquisitions: A Thriving Market
The market for dental practice sales and acquisitions is more dynamic than ever. With demand reaching new heights, this is an opportune moment for owners considering a sale. Buyers are equally eager to enter the market, armed with future-proof strategies and a clear understanding of a practice’s potential—spanning patient base, location, and digital readiness. Navigating this landscape requires expert support, and that’s where we come in. At Frank Taylor & Associates, we specialise in guiding practice owners through valuations, negotiations, and the sales process to achieve their perfect exit.
The Evolution of Marketing and Patient Engagement
Marketing in 2025 is all about connecting with patients where they are, including online. Short-form video content and strategic social media campaigns are now essential tools for building trust, fostering loyalty, and attracting new patients. Practices embracing these trends are finding that their digital presence is more than a marketing tool; it’s a way to build relationships before patients even step through the door.
Navigating Challenges in a Changing Landscape
Despite the optimism surrounding private practice growth, NHS dentistry remains a cornerstone of the sector. While narratives often suggest a shift away from NHS contracts, the reality is more nuanced. Many practices continue to navigate the complexities of both public and private care, demonstrating resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges.
Practice ownership also continues to be a key aspiration for associates seeking autonomy and stability. However, the journey to ownership can be complex, requiring careful planning, financial acumen, and the right support. As specialists in dental practice sales, we understand the intricacies involved and are committed to helping associates realise their ambitions.
Looking Ahead
2025 is a year of opportunity. By embracing innovation, prioritising patient care, and leveraging the right tools and expertise, practice owners can set the stage for unparalleled success. Whether you’re growing your practice, planning to sell, or stepping into ownership for the first time, this is the moment to act.
At Frank Taylor & Associates, we’re here to support you at every stage of your journey. From helping dentists plan their exits to guiding them toward strategic growth, we’re proud to be part of an industry defined by resilience, passion, and the drive to make a difference. Together, let’s make 2025 a landmark year for the business of dentistry.
Practice - North London
Practice location: This well-established practice, operational for over 60 years, is situated in a thriving suburb of North London. The area benefits from excellent connectivity via local bus routes and a nearby train station. Positioned on a main road near a parade of shops, the practice enjoys significant footfall. It operates from a semi-detached former residential property with on-site parking.
Practice type: This is a four-surgery mixed-income practice with a strong balance between NHS and private patients. The premises are freehold, spread over two floors, and include modern facilities such as a decontamination room, a newly installed OPG and a spacious garden.
Practice financials: The gross fee income for the past 12 months is in the region of £987,203, comprising 54% private fee-per-item and 46% NHS income. The NHS contract generates £455,000 annually at a UDA rate of £32.
Price achieved: A price of £1,834,365 was achieved, inclusive of the freehold property.
Agent's comments: This practice stood out due to its strong financial performance, excellent patient feedback, and strategic location. The incoming principal has exciting opportunities to further develop the business by leveraging its existing loyal patient base and expanding services.
Number of people looking in the area: 2,696
Practice - Buckinghamshire
Practice location: This practice is situated in an affluent area just a mile outside a popular and busy town with a population exceeding 32,000. The location benefits from excellent transport links making it easily accessible. The surrounding area is predominantly residential, with a demographic comprising over 75% in managerial, administrative, or professional positions.
Practice type: This is a well-established, four-surgery mixed practice with a NHS contract providing over 13,000 UDAs. The practice has been under the current ownership for 25 years, and is being sold with a new 15-year lease in place.
Practice financials: The gross income for the past 12 months is in the region of £1,600,000. The income is a mix of 77.6% private and 22.4% NHS, highlighting a significant private income stream.
Price achieved: £2,750,000 which was in line with the asking price.
Agent's comments: This practice has an impressive track record of consistent turnover and strong profitability, further enhanced by its desirable location in a thriving, affluent area. With a solid foundation, excellent team structure, and up-to-date equipment, this is an ideal acquisition for both owner-operators and investors. The practice’s proximity to major transport routes ensures a steady flow of patients and future growth opportunities.
Number of people looking in the area: 1,833
Practice - West Midlands
Practice location: This practice is situated in a predominantly residential area. Established since the 1960s, it has built a strong local presence and loyalty among its patient base. The practice operates from a detached, two-storey former residential property that is well-maintained and offers ample space, including three surgeries.
Practice type: A predominantly NHS practice, offering over 20,000 UDAs annually at a rate of £31.83 per UDA. The practice is being sold as leasehold with a new 15-year lease being created, featuring a competitive rent of approximately £20,000 per annum. It provides family dental care services and operates without evening or weekend appointments.
Practice financials: The gross fee income is in the region of £669,319, with NHS income accounting for 96.2% and the remainder from private fee-per-item work. The reconstituted net profit stands at £267,296 (39.9%).
Price achieved: A price of £1,350,000 was achieved.
Agent's comments: This practice was highly attractive due to its robust NHS contract, consistent turnover, and profitability. With no significant investment required, it presents an excellent opportunity for an ambitious and driven owner to maximise surgery utilisation and expand services.
Number of people looking in the area: 1,022
Practice - Greater London
Practice location: This well-established practice benefits from excellent transport links, with nearby tube stations, multiple bus routes, and access to major roads. Situated on a high street, the practice enjoys high visibility and footfall, enhancing its appeal within the local community.
Practice type: This is a two-surgery, mixed-income practice operating under a new 15-year lease. It has been established since 1991 and has on-site parking for four cars.
Practice financials: The gross income for the past 12 months is approximately £359,100, with a reconstituted net profit of £203,000n Income is composed of 90% NHS (UDAs at a rate in excess of £35 per UDA@) and 10% private fee-per-item work.
Price achieved: £850,000.
Agent's comments: This practice represents an excellent opportunity for a first-time buyer or experienced operator. With a strong NHS foundation, there is significant scope to increase income by introducing cosmetic, orthodontic, and implant treatments. Its prime high-street location, combined with consistent profitability and no evening or weekend appointments, makes this an attractive acquisition.
Number of people looking in the area: 2,939
