In order to keep your salary in line with your expectations, skills, and experience, it is a good idea to request a review of your fees with the practice owner every year.
Research continues to show that women are less likely to negotiate pay rises than men, so we encourage all associates, regardless of gender, to feel confident in initiating pay discussions.
Building your case
We recommend reviewing your current contract, gathering evidence of your experience, performance, and contributions, and referencing market benchmarks. Rising cost of living is also something that can be used in a negotiation.
Our updated model associate contracts set out the licence fee arrangement that you pay for the use of the facilities. This is often around 45-55% of your gross earnings, but can vary according to circumstances such as the practice’s operating costs.
In May, the Doctors’ and Dentists’ Review Body (DDRB) published its annual report recommending a 4% uplift to employed dentists’ salaries and the pay element of NHS contracts, and the Government has accepted this. While this uplift does not apply directly to associates, it provides a useful benchmark when reviewing pay.
It is good to stay informed of Unit of Dental Activity (UDA) values to enable you to request a reasonable amount. Members can use our UDA value checker to assess whether current rates reflect the true cost of delivery. Likewise, have a look at typical private treatment schedules for the work you carry out too.
For a detailed analysis of the financial climate of dentistry, have a look at our dental market insight report.
Anticipating the practice owner’s point of view
The practice owner will take several factors into consideration when weighing up overhead costs that practices have to pay, particularly for materials and staffing, which have increased sharply.
Now, associates receive a New Patient Premium for patients who have not been seen by a dentist in the last 24 months. You should factor this payment into remuneration discussions.
Non-monetary benefits
When discussing pay you can also negotiate non-monetary benefits such as flexible working hours, workload, and educational support. Think about how your needs such as training align with the needs of the practice, and how meeting these needs could be beneficial to the practice too.
Having the conversation about pay
While some dentists may feel awkward discussing pay, regular and transparent discussions about feasibility and shared goals can maintain positive professional relationships between practice owners and associates.
If you feel that your current pay does not reflect your contribution or the current market conditions, you should prepare for a constructive conversation with the practice owner. Approach the discussion professionally, focusing on mutual goals like retention, sustainability, and fairness.