How Much Does a Dental Nurse Get Paid in 2025?
If you’re a Dental Nurse or considering becoming one, you might be wondering what your earning potential looks like in 2025. The good news? Dental Nurse salaries have risen across the UK, and with the right skills and qualifications, you could be earning more than you think.
In this post, we break down the latest hourly rates, annual salaries, and how location plays a key role in what you can earn.
Average Dental Nurse Salary in 2025 (UK-Wide)
- Entry-Level Dental Nurse:
£11 – £13 per hour
£21,000 – £24,000 annually
- Experienced Dental Nurse:
£14 – £16 per hour
£26,000 – £30,000 annually
- Senior/Lead Dental Nurse:
£17 – £20 per hour
£32,000 – £37,000+ annually
These figures can vary depending on your qualifications, responsibilities, and whether you take on additional roles like Treatment Coordination or Lead Nurse duties.
Salary Differences by Region in 2025
Where you work in the UK has a big impact on your pay. Here’s a breakdown of regional salary ranges:
- London:
Entry-Level: £13 – £15 per hour | £25,000 – £29,000 annually
Experienced: £16 – £20 per hour | £30,000 – £38,000 annually
- Birmingham:
Entry-Level: £12 – £13 per hour | £22,500 – £25,000 annually
Experienced: £14 – £17 per hour | £27,000 – £32,000 annually
- Cardiff:
Entry-Level: £11 – £12 per hour | £21,000 – £23,500 annually
Experienced: £13 – £15 per hour | £25,000 – £28,500 annually
- Manchester:
Entry-Level: £12 – £13 per hour | £23,000 – £26,000 annually
Experienced: £14 – £17 per hour | £27,500 – £32,000 annually
- Glasgow:
Entry-Level: £11 – £12 per hour | £21,500 – £24,000 annually
Experienced: £13 – £16 per hour | £25,500 – £30,000 annually
How to Increase Your Dental Nurse Salary in 2025
Want to move beyond the average? Here’s how:
Take on More Responsibility:
Becoming a Lead Dental Nurse or managing infection control, stock, or audits can add £3,000 – £6,000 to your annual salary.
Specialise:
Qualify in areas like Orthodontic Nursing, and earn more by supporting specialist treatments.
Add a Dual Role:
Combining your role with Treatment Coordination can add £3,000 – £8,000 per year, depending on your practice.
Invest in Yourself – Get Qualified and Earn More
To stand out and command higher pay, having the right qualifications matters.
Conclusion: You’re Worth More Than You Think
In 2025, Dental Nurses are being recognised more than ever for their role in patient care and practice success. With rising pay across the UK and more opportunities for growth, now is the time to invest in your career and get the pay you deserve.