Bank of England Base Rate Decision – 5th November: What Does It Mean for Dental Practice Buyers?
The Bank of England's latest interest rate decision could affect the cost of buying a dental practice. However, lenders remain supportive of dental practice acquisitions.
On 5 November 2026, the Bank of England raised Bank Rate by 0.25 percentage points to 4%
For dentists considering buying their first practice or expanding their existing portfolio, changes to the base rate can raise questions about borrowing costs and access to finance.
However, feedback from Henry Schein Financial Services’ lending partners suggests that banks continue to demonstrate a strong appetite to support dental practice acquisitions, reflected in their competitive policies.
Our Business Manager Kimberley Parker explains more…
How does the Bank of England base rate affect dental practice finance?
“The Bank of England base rate is one of several factors that can influence borrowing costs across the UK. However, a change in the base rate does not automatically mean that securing finance becomes more difficult.
The dental sector continues to be viewed favourably by lenders who highlight several positive points:
- Continued appetite to lend – Lenders remain supportive of the dental sector and continue to consider suitable dental practice acquisition proposals.
- Confidence in the dental sector – Dentistry continues to demonstrate attractive characteristics from a lending perspective, including recurring income, resilient patient demand and strong cash-generative potential.
There are also several factors that contribute to affordability, with interest rates being just one part of the overall picture.”
Are banks still lending to dental practice buyers?
“Yes. Leading lenders continue to demonstrate an appetite for financing dental practice acquisitions.
We have recently spoken with our main lending partners to understand their current approach to dental practice finance and the feedback has been encouraging and extremely positive, with lenders continuing to recognise the strength of the dental sector.”
Should you delay buying a dental practice because of interest rates?
“While interest rates are an important consideration, they shouldn’t be the only factor influencing your decision to buy.
The dental sector continues to attract strong support from lenders, with banks keen to finance dental practice acquisitions and compete for suitable lending opportunities. This means that finance remains very much available for prospective buyers, with lenders continuing to recognise the strength and resilience of the sector.
Affordability is about much more than the interest rate alone. The financial performance of the practice, your deposit, projected earnings and the overall finance package, including repayment terms, all contribute to what you can borrow and what is achievable.
Speaking to a finance consultant early can help you understand your borrowing potential, explore the competitive options available and move forward with confidence when the right opportunity arises.”
Explore your dental practice finance options
If you’re thinking about buying a dental practice, understanding your finance options is an important first step.
At Henry Schein Dental Practice Sales, we work closely with Henry Schein Financial Services to help buyers explore funding opportunities and navigate the acquisition process.
Our team can help you understand your borrowing potential and take the next step towards practice ownership.
Frequently asked questions
Does a base rate increase make dental practice loans more expensive?
Higher interest rates may increase borrowing costs, particularly for variable-rate loans. However, the banks continue to demonstrate strong lending appetite, with competitive lending policies and a willingness to support viable finance applications. Buyers should also consider the overall finance package, including the repayment terms available, rather than focusing solely on the interest rate.
Can I still get a loan to buy a dental practice?
Yes. Lenders continue to consider suitable dental practice acquisition applications. Approval depends on factors such as affordability, practice performance, deposit and the buyer’s financial position. The lending policies remain strong and competitive which supports buyers in providing finance options.
Should I wait for interest rates to fall before buying a dental practice?
The right time to buy depends on your financial circumstances, the practice opportunity and the funding available. Speaking with a dental finance specialist can help you assess your options.
