How to Transition from NHS to Private Dentistry in the UK
(2025–2026 Guide)
What Associates Should Know Before Making the Move
If you’re an Associate Dentist currently working within the NHS or a mixed practice, chances are you’ve wondered:
“Is now the right time to go fully private?”
With UDA pressures mounting and patient expectations continuing to rise, more dentists than ever are exploring life beyond the NHS.
At Elev8 Search Group, we’re speaking to associates across the UK who’ve made the switch or are planning to.
Here’s what the current landscape looks like for private dentistry in 2025–2026, and what you need to know before making that transition.
Why So Many Dentists Are Going Private
Across England and Wales, the shift toward private dentistry is accelerating.
Associates tell us the same key reasons –
Less pressure — no UDA targets or rigid contracts.
More time per patient — focus on quality, not volume.
Higher earning potential — direct link between skill, reputation, and income.
Clinical freedom — full control over materials, treatments, and approach.
Many describe private dentistry as “getting back to why I became a dentist” a chance to slow down, deliver higher-quality care, and regain professional satisfaction.
Private Dentist Earnings (2025–2026)
Earnings vary depending on experience, patient base, and treatment mix but the jump from NHS to private can be significant.
Here’s what we’re seeing across the UK right now –
Private Associate Dentists – typically £80,000 – £150,000 per year.
Cosmetic or Implant-Focused Dentists – £150,000 – £200,000+.
Mixed Practice Associates (building private lists) – often see a 50–100% income increase within 12 months.
Private income depends on chair time, lab costs, treatment pricing, and importantly, your revenue split with the practice.
Most private practices operate on a revenue-sharing model rather than a fixed salary.
Typical split percentages (as of 2025–2026) –
Associates – 40%–50% of treatment revenue (after lab fees).
High-end cosmetic or boutique practices sometimes offer lower splits (35%–45%), but these often come with more marketing support, digital systems, and guaranteed private patient flow.
Conversely, smaller independents or start-ups may offer higher splits (up to 55%) if you bring a strong patient following or active marketing presence.
Skills That Drive Private Success
Associates who transition successfully tend to invest in their skillset early.
Key areas that make a difference –
Aesthetic & Restorative Training – Composite bonding, Invisalign, veneers, implants.
Patient Communication – Confidence in treatment presentation and value explanation.
Consistency & Care – Private patients expect trust, time, and transparency.
Portfolio Building – A must-have for cosmetic and high-end practices.
Personal Branding – Social media presence that showcases your work, style, and personality.
Courses in composite bonding, Invisalign, veneers, implants for example, the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry offers recognised training and development for clinicians expanding into private and aesthetic work.
Building Your Portfolio and Personal Brand
In today’s private market, your portfolio isn’t just a nice addition, it’s a requirement.
Practices want to see your work before they meet you. A strong before-and-after gallery, clear photography, and patient testimonials (with consent) demonstrate both skill and professionalism.
But the real game-changer in 2025–2026? Your online presence.
Instagram has become one of the most effective tools for associates to –
Showcase aesthetic and restorative cases.
Build patient trust before they ever step into the clinic.
Attract new patients directly through content and engagement.
Position themselves as credible, in-demand clinicians.
A clean, professional feed with consistent branding can massively boost your visibility and practices notice. Many now review candidates social media before interviews.
Your portfolio and personal brand go hand-in-hand. Together, they tell your story, your standard of work, your attention to detail, and how you connect with patients.
If you’re serious about going private, start documenting your cases and building your online brand now.
How to Transition from NHS or Mixed Practice to Fully Private
There’s no one-size-fits-all route, but the most successful transitions share a few common steps –
1. Start with a Mixed Model
If you’re currently NHS-heavy, take on private treatments where possible like whitening, aligners, cosmetic cases. This builds confidence, content, and portfolio material.
2. Invest in Further Training
Courses in cosmetic and restorative dentistry pay for themselves over time. They also help you stand out when applying to fully private practices.
3. Build and Showcase Your Portfolio
Create a simple digital portfolio, either a PDF, website, or social media profile. Focus on quality photography, case outcomes, and patient stories.
4. Choose the Right Environment
Not every private practice suits every associate. Look for strong patient demand, digital systems, and supportive teams who understand the private model.
5. Prepare Financially
It’s normal to see a short-term dip while building your patient base. Within six to twelve months, most associates surpass their previous NHS income.
6. Grow Your Personal Brand
Consistency on Instagram, sharing educational content, and connecting with other professionals can quickly build your reputation and open new opportunities.
Is Private Dentistry Worth It?
For most dentists who make the switch, the answer is yes.
Private dentistry offers autonomy, flexibility, and the freedom to shape your own career. It rewards those who invest in their craft and want to deliver dentistry without compromise.
As one associate recently told us, ”I earn more now, work fewer hours, and actually enjoy my days again!”
Thinking About Going Private?
If you’re considering transitioning from NHS or mixed practice to fully private, we’re currently supporting multiple private and mixed practices across the UK looking for experienced associates ready to take that next step.
