Dentists at risk: Reasons for time off and safeguarding your income

Dentistry is a hands-on, high-pressure profession relying heavily on physical ability, mental sharpness and good health. But what happens when illness or injury forces you to step away from the chair?

Recent data from Wesleyan’s Personal Income Protection Plan reveals the top three reasons dentists made a claim in 2024:

• Musculoskeletal problems – 36%
• Cancer – 18%
• Mental health issues – 12%

These aren’t rare or exceptional cases - they highlight the real-world risks that can affect any dental professional, regardless of experience, age, or setting. When the unexpected happens, are you confident you are covered for these key risks?

Musculoskeletal issues: Dentistry’s hidden strain

From long hours in the chair to repetitive movements and potentially poor posture, dentistry is physically demanding. Back, neck, and shoulder problems are often seen as part of the job but when they escalate, they can pause your ability to practise.

One in three claims were due to musculoskeletal conditions. That’s not an anomaly, it’s a warning sign.

Without income protection, a temporary or long-term musculoskeletal injury could mean relying on savings, reducing your hours, or even being forced to stop practising altogether.

Cancer: A tough diagnosis, financially and emotionally

No one wants to imagine receiving a cancer diagnosis, but it’s the second most common reason for income protection claims among our policyholders.

Treatment can take months. Recovery even longer. Your focus should ideally be on healing, not on worrying about how you’ll pay your mortgage or support your family.

Income protection gives you the space to focus on your health, without added financial pressure.

Mental health: The growing risk we must talk about

Dentistry can be isolating, pressurised, and emotionally draining. Mental health issues account for 12% of claims. This figure reflects rising awareness and willingness to seek support, but also an underlying challenge in the profession.

Stress, anxiety, burnout, depression are not signs of weakness. They are valid, recognised conditions that can impact your ability to work safely and effectively.

With the right cover in place, you can access the time, space and support needed to recover without worrying about how long you can afford to be off work.

A safety net you can rely on

When 1 in 3 claims are due to a condition caused by the career itself, it’s clear that income protection isn’t a luxury - it’s a necessity.

Even shorter-term illnesses and injuries can impact your income, especially if you’re self-employed or running a practice. NHS sick pay only lasts so long, and not all dental professionals have a contingency plan if they can’t work.

Wesleyan’s Income Protection Plan is designed to step in when sick pay ends - paying a monthly income to help you stay on top of regular outgoings. It also includes access to free healthcare and wellbeing services to support your recovery, so you can get back to work when you're ready.

In 2024, 100% of income protection claims submitted to Wesleyan were accepted. In a landscape where some providers may apply exclusions or complex criteria, this track record offers peace of mind. It reflects not just the robustness of the policy, but a commitment to being there for professionals when they need it most.

Let us help you protect your income, your lifestyle, and your peace of mind. Speak to a Specialist Financial Adviser from Wesleyan Financial Services. Charges may apply. You will not be charged until you have agreed to the services you require and the associated costs.