Dentistry is one such craft that keeps giving – a beast that truly cannot be tamed. The dental market is ripe in the UK and it demands the preservation of such a valuable acquisition. Forecasts from market analysts have pointed to a steadily increasing private sector in dentistry, a steep rise of 10% in private general dental services and 15% for private cosmetic work between 2017 and 2020. Conversely, we see a 1.5% growth in expenditure on NHS dentistry.
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The dental business is growing fast and does not plan on slacking. In fact, the market size of dental practices is expected to increase by 14.2% in 2022. Not only is dentistry in demand right now, but also is highly paying. The dental profession has truly taken the phrase “Put your money where your mouth is” literally because dentistry has ranked in the top 20 highest paying professions list for many consecutive years.
Out of the 13 dental specialities recognised by the General Dental Council (GDC) in the UK, we have listed the highest paying ones. Perhaps, this list will help you determine whether the profession is the right pursuit for you especially if annual salary is a factor in your decision.
Orthodontist
The first thing that comes to mind when one mentions orthodontists is braces. Indeed, they are responsible for straightening teeth but they also do so much more. Treatments for bite disorders and airway function also fall under the realm of orthodontic work. They help maintain healthy occlusion of the patient’s teeth.
The average orthodontist’s salary in the UK is £76,041 per year or £39 per hour. Entry-level positions start at £35,000 per year while the most experienced workers make up to £96,390 per year. (according to UK talent.com)
Prosthodontist
The speciality of prosthodontics focuses on replacing missing teeth. They are responsible for constructing prostheses to restore lost dentitions and reform oral structures that have been damaged by deformities in the mouth and jaws. Dentures are one of many prosthetic placements crafted by prosthodontists.
The average prosthodontist’s salary in the UK is £68,000 per year or £34.87 per hour. Entry-level positions start at £62,000 per year while the most experienced workers make up to £70,000 per year. (according to UK talent.com)
Oral and maxillofacial surgeon
An OMS performs surgeries on the face, mouth, and jaws. The complexity of these surgeries can range from simple procedures like pulling wisdom teeth to fixing cleft lips and other highly-complex treatments of the head and neck region. They also perform cosmetic surgeries such as facelifts.
The average oral and maxillofacial surgeon’s salary in the UK is £57,349 per year or £29.41 per hour. Entry-level positions start at £38,478 per year while the most experienced workers make up to £93,764 per year. (according to UK talent.com)
Endodontist
Endodontists are dental practitioners that specialise in preventative dental care. Dental fillings, root canal therapies, and crown placements are all performed by endodontists. Essentially, they care for the interior of the teeth, i.e. the dental pulp that contains the blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. Endodontists help maintain the viability of your teeth.
The average endodontist’s salary in the UK is £31,071 per year or £15.93 per hour. Entry-level positions start at £22,500 per year while the most experienced workers make up to £90,000 per year. (according to UK talent.com)
Choosing a career can be a difficult decision. Whether you are planning to change your current profession or make the vital decision of following your dream job, there is a lot to consider before making that decision. Amongst many factors, financial stability is also one that you must bear in mind when sifting through the many career options presented to you.
