Independent Buyers Lead 2024 US Dental Market Growth

Market Shift Towards Independent Acquisitions

USA: Analysis from Christie & Co’s Business Outlook 2025 report indicates a significant transformation in dental practice acquisitions during 2024, with the independent sector dominating 82% of dental transactions. This represents a marked change from previous years, particularly notable in the corporate sector’s reduced involvement, which decreased from 31% in 2023 to 18% in 2024.

Transaction Volume and Pricing Dynamics

The report reveals a robust market performance in 2024, with practice viewings increasing by 19% and offers rising by 17% compared to the previous year. Deal agreements showed particular strength, with a 26% increase over 2023 figures. Notably, practices achieved an average of 108% of their asking prices, despite an overall 9.6% decrease in dental business sale prices during the year.

The market saw an 18% increase in practices being listed for sale during 2024, expanding opportunities for potential buyers. This increased supply contributed to a rise in the average number of offers per practice, climbing from 4.4 in 2023 to 4.8 in 2024, demonstrating sustained buyer interest despite market adjustments.

Small Groups’ Growing Influence

Small dental groups emerged as particularly active players, accounting for 29% of business acquisitions in 2024, up from 18% in the previous year. As Joel Mannix, Head of Dental at Christie & Co, notes: “As we move into 2025, the dental market is poised for continued growth. With independent buyers and smaller groups leading the charge, we anticipate a dynamic year ahead.”

The sentiment survey conducted by Christie & Co reveals mixed expectations for 2025, with 37% of dental professionals expressing positive outlook, 26% negative, and 37% maintaining a neutral stance. Mannix remains optimistic about the sector’s prospects, stating: “Despite some ongoing challenges, the overall sentiment is optimistic and, when coupled with that wider activity, we expect the market to continue to adapt and thrive, driven by agility, innovation and resilience.”

Future Market Considerations

Several factors are expected to influence the dental market in 2025, including anticipated changes to Business Asset Disposal Relief, increased National Living Wage rates, and the potential return of Private Equity-backed corporate buyers. The report suggests that practices with larger private patient bases may become increasingly attractive to buyers, particularly given the financial restrictions placed on NHS-focused practices following the 2024 Autumn Budget.