NHS dentist salaries in the UK vary by role and experience. Foundation training dentists earn around £38,472-£40,776 annually. Salaried NHS dentists working in community services earn between £52,532 and £112,360. Consultant dentists earn £109,725 to £145,478 from April 2025. However, most NHS dentists work as self-employed contractors, with earnings varying significantly based on their practice's services and patient volume.

Salaried GPs typically earn between £73,113 and £114,743, while salaried NHS dentists earn £52,532 to £112,360. At consultant level, both earn similar salaries (£109,725-£145,478). However, self-employed NHS dentist contractors and GP partners can earn significantly more through their practices. Private dentistry and GP partnerships offer additional income opportunities beyond basic NHS salaries, making direct comparison complex.

The starting salary for a newly qualified dentist entering NHS foundation training is £40,776 per year (as of April 2024). This one-year foundation program is mandatory for all new dentists wishing to work in the NHS. After completing foundation training, dentists can earn £52,656+ if they enter dental core training or work as community practitioners starting at around £50,512.

NHS dental consultants earn between £109,725 and £145,478 annually from April 2025, with pay progression based on years of seniority. Consultants can also receive Local Clinical Excellence Awards and national Clinical Impact Awards for exceptional performance, which provide additional annual payments. These awards are competitive and recognize contributions beyond standard job requirements.

Private dentists often have higher earning potential than NHS dentists, but also face higher business costs and risks. Self-employed NHS contractor dentists combine NHS and private work to maximize income. Salaried NHS positions (£52,532-£112,360) offer job security, pensions, and benefits, while private practice income varies greatly depending on location, reputation, and patient base. Many dentists blend NHS and private work.

Dental hygienists in the NHS typically fall under Agenda for Change Band 5 or Band 6. Band 5 salaries range from £30,279 to £37,338 annually, while Band 6 positions (senior/specialist hygienists) earn £37,339 to £44,962. Experienced hygienists with additional responsibilities may progress to Band 7 (£43,742-£50,056). Private practice hygienists may earn differently based on commission or self-employed rates.

NHS dental therapists are generally employed on Agenda for Change Band 5 (£30,279-£37,338) or Band 6 (£37,339-£44,962) depending on experience and responsibilities. Senior dental therapists with extended skills or supervisory duties may reach Band 7 (£43,742-£50,056). Dental therapists working in private practice or as independent practitioners may have different earning structures based on their business model.

The highest paid NHS dentist role is Consultant Dentist, earning £109,725 to £145,478 annually (from April 2025). With Local Clinical Excellence Awards (up to £36,000) and national Clinical Impact Awards (up to £75,000+), total compensation can exceed £220,000. Band C specialist dentists and managers earn around £94,007-£96,841, making them the second-highest paid grade below consultant level.

Foundation training dentists (also known as dental foundation trainees or DFTs) earn £40,776 per year as of April 2024 in England. Scotland pays £39,603, Wales £38,292, and Northern Ireland varies. This is a one-year mandatory training program for all newly qualified dentists. The salary is set annually through the Primary Dental Services Statement of Financial Entitlements Directions.

NHS dentists in training grades receive additional payments for hours worked beyond 40 per week, including 37% enhancements for night shifts, weekend allowances, and on-call availability payments. Consultants can earn Clinical Excellence Awards and Clinical Impact Awards (£4,000-£75,000+). Some roles qualify for flexible pay premiums, such as oral and maxillofacial specialists. Self-employed contractor dentists set their own fee structures within NHS guidelines.