After several inquiries from clients about whether non-dental spouses can become partners in dental surgeries, we now have it on good authority that a non dentist can only become a partner in the following situation:

1. A limited company would have to be set up. (A non dentist cannot become a partner in a straightforward partnership)
2. The majority of directors should be registered with the GDC (this depends on numbers – not shareholdings)
3. It would therefore be necessary to have at least three directors, two of which should be registered with the GDC (not necessarily dentists – we understand hygienists and nurses can also register with the GDC).

Taking the case of a qualified dentist and his/her non dental spouse, this would mean passing an element of control over the practice to a third party who is registered with the GDC.

Forming a limited company is a complex issue. We do have a package in which we can prepare a report for you, analyzing potential savings (if any) and also drawing your attention to the potential pitfalls.