Navigating your first year of dental income

Starting DFT is a huge milestone. You’ve made it through dental school, secured your placement and now you’re stepping into the world of full-time work - and your first real pay cheque. But with that pay cheque comes a whole new set of responsibilities, especially when it comes to managing your finances.

We spoke with three early-career dentists - Dr. Tilly Houston, Dr. James Foster and Dr. Megan McLeod - about what they learned the hard way, what surprised them and what they wish they’d known before starting DFT.

Understanding your first payslip

Your first pay cheque might feel like a reward for five years of hard work - and it is. But don’t be fooled by the number on that first slip.

"Your first DFT pay cheque is the highest it’ll be," says James. "You haven’t used up your personal tax allowance yet. But once that’s gone, and student loan repayments kick in, it drops."

Tilly adds, "When I saw my first payslip, I had no idea what all the deductions meant. Sitting down with someone who understands it, like your supervisor or a colleague, really helps."

Budgeting before your first payday

You won’t get paid until the end of your first month, but you’ll have expenses right away.

"I had to pay my GDC registration, rent and bills before I got paid," says Megan. "It was more than I expected."

Tilly recommends starting to save during your final year: "You’ll need a few hundred pounds for GDC registration in August, and another payment later in the year. Budget for it early."

UDAs, associate pay and what to ask in interviews

If you’re already thinking ahead to associate roles, understanding UDAs is key.

"Every practice interview I had asked me what UDA target I’d aim for," says James. "A good rule of thumb is 1,000 UDAs per NHS working day per year."

Tilly adds, "Some practices penalise you if you don’t hit your target, or even if you exceed it. Make sure there’s no clawback clause in your contract."

Why a dental specific accountant is worth it

Both Tilly and James agree, getting an accountant who understands dentistry is one of the best decisions you can make.

"My accountant helped me understand what I could claim tax back for, how much to set aside for paying tax to HMRC, and even talked to me about pensions," says Tilly.

James adds, "As a self-employed dentist, you can claim for things like mileage, laundry, GDC fees and indemnity. It’s worth having someone guide you through it."

Planning for time off

One of the biggest surprises working as an associate? You don’t get paid when you’re not working.

"When you take time off, you’re not earning, but you’re still spending," says Tilly. "It’s a double hit. Budgeting for those quieter months is essential."

Final advice for new DFTs

Start learning now. Ask questions. Save early. And don’t be afraid to talk about money.

"There’s so much we weren’t taught at Uni," says Megan. "But there are great resources out there - videos, Facebook groups, colleagues and The Next Step. Use them."

If you’d like to understand more about your money in DFT, why not download our financial survival guide to DFT now?