The recent announcement of a 6% pay increase for high street NHS dentists in England has been greeted with cautious optimism, as it marks a step forward in addressing the long-standing issue of underpayment in the sector. However, while this pay uplift exceeds inflation and is double the 3% increase previously budgeted by the government, it represents only the beginning of what must be a comprehensive effort to reform the financial structure of NHS dental services. The challenges facing the sector are profound, and significant changes are urgently needed to ensure the sustainability of dental care within the National Health Service (NHS).
The decision to grant a 6% pay increase reflects the severe pressures facing NHS dentistry, a reality that has been underscored by damning evidence presented to the pay review body. This evidence highlighted the existential threat posed to the service by years of inadequate funding and support. The increase in pay is a necessary response to these pressures, but it is far from sufficient to address the deep-rooted problems within the sector. The journey toward fair pay for NHS dentists must continue, as the current situation remains untenable.
Analysis of data on NHS dentists’ earnings and expenses published last week reveals a stark reality: since the 2008/09 financial year, the average NHS dentist in England has experienced a real-terms pay cut of over 40%. This dramatic reduction in income has no parallel in either the UK public or private sectors, making it clear that dentists have borne an inordinate financial burden over the past decade. Such a significant decline in earnings has not only affected the livelihoods of individual dentists but has also contributed to a broader crisis in the recruitment and retention of dental professionals within the NHS.
While the 6% pay increase is a positive development, it is only a first step. The ongoing discussions about pay and conditions must also address the soaring expenses that NHS dentists face. These expenses, which have been rising sharply, are likely to diminish the real value of the pay uplift. Reaching a fair agreement on how these costs will be factored into the final deal is crucial to ensuring that the pay increase delivers genuine financial relief for dentists.
In addition to the pay increase for high street dentists, there is also potential progress for dentists working under the junior contract in secondary care. A proposed deal, which offers a pay uplift of over 20% over two years, is set to be put to a referendum among hospital members. If approved, this deal could signal an end to the prolonged industrial action that has plagued the sector and offer a new beginning for these dental professionals. Such a breakthrough would be a significant achievement and could serve as a model for addressing the broader challenges within the NHS.
However, while there is hope for progress in secondary care, the situation in primary care remains dire. Dentists working in this sector have not resorted to industrial action, but many have chosen to reduce or end their NHS commitments altogether. This quiet exodus reflects deep dissatisfaction with the current system and underscores the urgency of reform. The discredited contract that governs NHS dentistry is a major driver of this exodus, and its reform is essential to stem the tide of departures from the service.
Early talks with the government on reforming this contract have been encouraging, but maintaining momentum will be critical. The government must demonstrate both urgency and ambition in its approach to these negotiations if it hopes to keep demoralized dentists engaged with the NHS. Without meaningful reform and fair funding, the exodus of dentists from the NHS is likely to continue, further jeopardizing access to dental care for patients across England.
In summary, while the 6% pay increase for NHS dentists is a welcome development, it is only the first step in what must be a broader effort to address the financial and structural challenges facing the sector. Real reform, fair funding, and a commitment to addressing the soaring expenses faced by dentists are essential if the NHS is to retain its dental professionals and continue providing vital services to the public.