Qualified dental nurses in the UK have more choice than ever about how they work. Some love the variety of locum shifts, others want the security of a permanent team. There is no right answer, only the right answer for you right now.
The case for locum work
- You choose when and where you work, which suits study, childcare or a second role.
- Variety: different practices, clinicians and treatments build your experience quickly.
- Locum rates are often higher per hour than equivalent permanent pay.
- It is a low-pressure way to try practices before committing to one.
The trade-off is less predictability. Quiet weeks happen, there is usually no paid holiday or sick pay in the same way, and you will need to stay organised with your own records and paperwork.
The case for a permanent role
- A steady income with paid holiday and the security of an employment contract.
- Long-term relationships with patients and a regular clinician.
- Support with CPD, extended duties and career progression.
- Being part of a team and the culture you help to build.
The trade-off is flexibility. Your rota is set by the practice, and changing your hours or location usually means changing your job.
Questions to ask yourself
- How predictable does my income need to be over the next year?
- Do I want to specialise, or gain broad experience first?
- How far am I happy to travel, and how often?
- What support do I want with CPD and progression?
TwothMatch tipYou don't have to choose one forever. On TwothMatch you can switch on both locum and permanent preferences, see what's available near you, and change your settings whenever your life changes.
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