Mixed Dental Practices and Their Benefits
May 29, 2025
In the ever-evolving world of dentistry, mixed practices have become an increasingly popular model for both patients and dental professionals. These practices offer a combination of NHS and private treatments, giving patients more flexibility and clinicians more varied opportunities. But what exactly is a mixed dental practice, and what are the benefits of working in one?
What Is a Mixed Dental Practice?
A mixed practice provides both NHS-funded and private dental services under one roof. This hybrid model allows dentists to treat NHS patients while also offering private treatment options for those seeking cosmetic work, faster appointments, or treatments not covered by the NHS.Benefits for Dental Professionals
- Greater Clinical Variety In a mixed practice, you’ll gain experience with a broader range of treatments. NHS work helps you hone your efficiency and general clinical skills, while private work allows for more in-depth and often more advanced procedures such as cosmetic dentistry or implantology.
- Increased Earnings Potential While NHS work offers a stable income, private treatments can significantly boost your overall earnings. Mixed practices give you the best of both worlds—reliable NHS contracts and additional income from private patients.
- Enhanced Patient Relationships Private care often allows more time per patient, enabling you to build stronger rapport and trust. This can lead to better treatment outcomes and a more fulfilling clinical experience.
- Professional Growth Working in both NHS and private settings helps you stay competitive and expand your skill set. Many dentists in mixed practices take additional training to offer services like Invisalign, teeth whitening, or facial aesthetics—skills that are in high demand.