The report, which includes comparison data from previous years, highlights that in December 2024 there were 125,736 registered dental professionals: 46,362 dentists and 79,374 dental care professionals.
The most significant change in the register was the 23.5% increase in dental therapists with 1,402 new registrations, and the 9.6% increase in dental hygienists, with 921 new registrations. The number of dental nurses increased by 3,349 (5.4%).
The report shows that 53% of dentists who joined the register in 2024 were UK-qualified, 30% were EEA or rest of the world-qualified and 16% came through the Overseas Registration Examination (ORE) route.
Although the number of dental professionals increased overall, the number of dental technicians declined for the fifth year in a row, with only 5,025 now registered and almost 10% fewer dental technicians compared to 2020.
The Registration teams assessed 12,978 applications across all routes, an increase of 13.1% on the previous highest number of applications processed in 2023 (11,476).
There were 9,888 additions to the registers in 2024 (2,164 dentists and 7,724 DCPs).
The report provides a comprehensive overview of registration activity throughout 2024, including detailed information on the number of dental professionals, registration trends, and demographic profiles covering sex, age, and ethnicity.
- The dental register is predominantly female with 78% of all dental professionals identifying as female (53% of dentists and 93% of DCPs).
- Dental nurses make up over 50% of all those registered with the GDC; 97% of dental nurses are female.
- 30% of dentists are of Asian or Asian British ethnic origin, three times higher when compared to the total UK population.
- 47% of dentists told us they are from White ethnic groups, compared to 75% of DCPs.
Theresa Thorp, Executive Director of Regulation at the General Dental Council (GDC), said:
“The significant growth we’ve seen in registered dental professionals throughout 2024 is encouraging news for dental services across the UK. The report highlights the diversity of routes through which dental professionals are joining the register. Our teams have processed a record number of applications and we’re seeing the results of our ongoing work to maintain efficient registration processes. However, the continued decline in dental technicians for the fifth consecutive year remains a concern that requires attention from the wider dental sector.”
Disclaimer: The accuracy and information of news stories published on this website is accurate on the date of publishing. We endeavour to update stories if information change. You can contact us with change and update requests. Where possible, we will link to sources. Content on this website is for guidance purposes only. We cannot accept any responsibility or liability whatsoever for any action taken, or not taken. You should seek the appropriate legal advice having regard to your own particular circumstances.
Restoration Courses
Courses suitable for any health and social care practitioner who is considering making an application for restoration back onto the register.
Insight & Remediation
Courses that are suitable for any healthcare practitioner who is facing an investigation or hearing at work or before their regulatory body.
Probity, Ethics & Professionalism
Courses designed for those facing a complaint involving in part or in whole honesty, integrity and /or professionalism.
Recent Comments