In this video, Ross and Simon explain that the Budget ultimately delivered fewer shocks than expected, though many now feel misled after the government’s warnings of a large “black hole” proved overstated, suggesting the tax rises introduced are funding increased public spending instead. For dental practices, the most immediate commercial pressure comes from the National Minimum Wage increase, which pushes up costs across all support roles and tightens already-squeezed margins, making it essential for owners to understand their cost base, clinician profitability and team efficiency.

They outline a series of tax changes – most notably dividend rate increases from 2026, new limits on salary sacrifice pension efficiency for employees, and updated EV mileage rates from 2027 – alongside business rates reform and capital allowance adjustments that maintain the ability to expense up to £1m of equipment annually.

Despite heavy speculation, Ross and Simon note there were no changes to wealth tax, exit tax or inheritance tax. Overall, they highlight that the UK is becoming a more challenging, high-tax environment for self-employed clinicians and dental practice owners, underscoring the need for strong planning and smart structuring.

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