Advice for associates

In this section you will find advice and support on associateships in dentistry, including our popular UDA value checker, contract checking services and more.

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associate member exclusive

On-demand webinar: Understand the UDA contract

The webinar, recorded on 3 March 2026, explores the changes to the UDA contract that will come into effect from 1 April. Watch now to understand how to work within the new contract, what will change in terms of associate agreements and how to make sure you get paid fairly.

Watch the recording

UDA contract changes: Information for associates

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UDA contract proposals impact on associates

The proposals for contractual change introduce new ways of getting paid for NHS work, which will affect associates.

Negotiating your UDA rate in England: Practical guidance for associates

Confidently renegotiate your payments for NHS work where you practice. Understand how the annual pay uplift works, why it doesn't directly benefit associates, and how to build a strong case for negotiating the Units of Dental Activity (UDA) rate to which your licence fee is applied.

Your personal brand

How do you want your patients to view you as a dentist, and view your practice? Your personal brand can be an opportunity to show your expertise, personality and values.

For associates and practice owners

Updated UDA value checker

Understanding the financial details of England's NHS dental contract can be challenging, even for experienced professionals. Our exclusive UDA value checking tool helps members compare their practice to local and national averages, supporting confident and informed choices.

Find out more and download

Last updated

Scotland: 2026 changes to prior approval process and mandatory training

Learn about the 2026 changes to Scotland’s NHS dental prior approval process and mandatory training (provisional listing) requirements.

Investing for children

A practical guide to investing for children, exploring the tax and legal considerations, potential risks, and suitable investment options to help support future goals. Kindly provided by our trusted partners Chase de Vere.

Unscheduled care mandate: What it means for you

Understand how the new NHS unscheduled care mandate will affect your dental practice from April 2026. Learn about mandated levels, payments, UDAs, and year-end reconciliation.

How to negotiate your associate agreement

Whether you are reviewing your first associate agreement or renegotiating terms of an existing contract, understanding how to approach the conversation can make all the difference.

Working as an associate after a practice sale

The following guidance outlines key considerations to help associates protect their position and establish a clear, professional relationship with a new practice owner.

Planned leave from the practice

Discover how dental associates can manage planned leave professionally. Learn about autonomy, contractual obligations, and best practices for smooth operations.

Understanding your income

As a dental associate, understanding your income is essential for managing your finances and ensuring transparency in your earnings; whether you are working in a private practice, under an NHS contract, or a mix of both.

Associate agreements: What practices should consider

There are considerations practice owners need to make before drafting an associate agreement. We outline the common factors that can impact on the working relationship between a practice and associates.

Avoiding discrimination and managing complaints

What you need to do to avoid claims of discrimination, and how to respond if a complaint arises.

Equality and diversity in the workplace

Understand your responsibilities under anti-discrimination legislation in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Retention post-agreement

When an associate leaves a dental practice, any retention of pay must be handled transparently and in line with contractual agreements. 

Your working arrangements during your notice period

Your notice period is a time to manage your exit professionally while continuing to meet your obligations to the practice and patients. Associates should check contracts carefully, as there are likely to be specific requirements that apply during this time. It is important to communicate clearly with the practice and make any necessary arrangements to fulfil outstanding responsibilities. 

Exclusively for BDA members

Associate contract reviews

We can review your associate contract as part of any membership package. Our standard turn-around time is 10 working days, however please note that during busy periods it may be a little longer.

Learn more

BDA Practice Management Consultant Ezra Moffatt smiling confidently towards the camera

Member exclusive

Associates collection

This collection of articles from BDJ In Practice brings together recent articles of interest to associates working in UK dental practices. Covering all aspects of life as an associate, it provides a convenient update on current hot topics in UK dentistry.

Explore the collection

A drawing of a hand with a disposable glove holding a dental probe

Blogs

James Goldman 2024 06 Advisors MG 2578 500X500

Blog 5 days ago

How we develop fair associate agreements for you in a shifting landscape

NHS contracts in England and Wales are changing, so here is what we factor into your associate agreement.

Blog Tuesday 20 Jan 2026

England: Contract changes from April 2026: How we are shaping the final deal

GDPC Chair Shiv Pabary MBE: "As NHS England moves towards implementing contract changes, we are clear that improvements are long overdue, but the details matter."

Blog Thursday 25 Sep 2025

Joining the GDPC Private Practice Sub-Committee: My journey to advocacy and connection

New committee member Neelam Prasad reflects on moving into private practice and the value of a support network, mentorship and advocacy.

Blog Thursday 31 Jul 2025

Top tips for competitive associate pay

To keep your salary in line with your expectations, skills, and experience, it is a good idea to request a review of your fees with the practice owner every year. Practice Management Consultant, Sabina Mirza, shares tips to help you feel confident in initiating pay discussions.

For extra and expert members

Contact our associateships team

Get expert support on a wide range of associateship issues, including pay and contracts. Alongside our online guidance, Extra and Expert members can speak directly with our team whenever they need advice.

James Goldman, Associate Director of Advisory Services at the BDA, smiling towards the camera

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Managing and informing patients

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Employment law

Every practice requires an effective HR function to manage its workforce, policies and compliance with employment law.

Associates