Thinking of buying a dental practice in 2026? Here’s what you need to know

Image: Heiko Schuff for Unsplash

The dental market in Northern Ireland was very competitive in 2025. As we move through 2026, we expect to see another buoyant year, with increased buyer interest from larger corporate groups seeking to establish a foothold in Northern Ireland and sustained demand from group buyers wanting to build their presence. We are already seeing tangible activity from buyers who have traditionally focused on larger sites across the UK but have had little or no exposure to the Northern Ireland market. Driven by the quality of practices available and their strong growth potential, Northern Ireland is increasingly becoming a strategic focus for many.

Centralised locations with large, far-reaching patient catchments continue to perform particularly well. Central Belfast and its immediate surrounding areas remain especially attractive, as buyers look to capitalise on strong and consistent patient demand.

Mixed‑income practices are also set to be in high demand this year, as they accounted for 100% of the businesses we sold last year, and I don’t expect this to change.

If you are considering purchasing a practice and want to position yourself as a strong buyer, here are some key things to consider:

• Decide what kind of practice you want - NHS, private, or mixed income - and how many surgeries you need. Consider location and whether you're willing to commute. While it's good to have preferences, staying flexible will keep you open to more opportunities
• Register your interest with a reputable dental agent - avoid those who charge fees. A good agent will share practice details fairly with all interested buyers. Once registered, speak directly with the agent to clarify your goals and explore the options available
• Plan your finances. Most purchases require between a 10% and 20% deposit (and in some cases, no deposit). The dental sector is considered a ‘green light’ industry by lenders, generally making it easier to secure funding
• Engage a solicitor and accountant who specialise in dental practices. Their expertise will help you navigate legal and financial complexities and avoid common pitfalls
• Finally, be prepared for competition. The dental market in Northern Ireland is strong and in demand. If you miss out on a practice, don’t be discouraged - there are plenty of opportunities, and the right one will come along

For a confidential chat about your business plans, contact Cathy Murphy: cathy.murphy@christie.com / 07756 875 133