How much do dentists get paid? NHS salary explained
DENTISTS prevent and treat oral and dental problems.
Here we take a look at everything you need to know about dentistry in the NHS.
1
What is the salary of a dentist in the UK?
Staff dentists employed by the NHS earn a basic salary of between £44,955 and £96,154.
However, this varies by location.
Salaries increase over time as you gain more experience and take on new roles that carry more responsibility, such as a consultant.
A newly qualified dentist for the NHS is paid an annual salary of £36,288.
Whilst a consultant in dental specialties is paid a base salary of between £88,364 and £119,133 per year depending on years of service at the consultant level.
The average dentist salary in the NHS is:
- Dentists – £32,349 per year on average.
- Dental Hygienist – £41,452 per year on average.
- Chief Dental Officer – £77,541 per year on average.
- Dental assistant – average £23,435 per year.
- Dental technicians – £35,620 on average.
- Orthodontist – average £94,473 per year.
How can I become a dentist?
To work in the NHS, a dentist must complete undergraduate dental training (DFT) or vocational training (VT).
This is a proctored apprenticeship with a year of work in an accredited practice after completion.
After that you will need to register with the General Dental Council to practice in the UK.
Once qualified, dentists can further update and expand their knowledge through a wide range of short courses and postgraduate qualifications.
What qualifications do I need to become a dentist?
To practice as a dentist, you must have a degree in dentistry. Courses take a minimum of five years to complete.
As a rule, you need good Abitur/college grades, with chemistry and biology being compulsory subjects.
Some dental schools offer a year-long preparatory dentistry course for those who do not have the required high school diploma or equivalent.
You may be able to apply for a 4-year dentistry degree if you already have at least a second grade (2:1) degree in biology, chemistry, or a biomedical subject.
According to the QS World University Ranking 2022, the Best Universities to Study Dentistry in the UK Are:
- King’s College London
- Queen Mary, University of London
- University College London
- University of Birmingham
- University of Manchester
