24 Mar 2026  •  Videos, NHS  •  2min read

The change to private practice I should’ve made 15 years ago

After more than a decade of feeling tied to an NHS contract that no longer worked for him, Jonathan Preece, Principal Dentist at Newport Dental Practice, reached a point where stress, clawbacks, recruitment struggles and burnout made change not only necessary, but inevitable.

In this candid interview, he shares how moving to Practice Plan transformed his practice, his team, and his personal wellbeing. From feeling supported every step of the way, to rediscovering work–life balance, to finally having the freedom to focus on the dentistry he loves, his story highlights what a difference the right guidance can make. He reflects on the smooth patient communication, the positive response from his loyal patient base, and the renewed sense of control that’s allowed him to take time back for himself, without the constant pressure of targets or performance worries.

If you’re a dentist still feeling tied to the NHS, his message is clear: don’t wait as long as he did. With the right support, the journey is not only manageable, but it can also be completely life changing.

 

Chapter timeline:

00:06 – What made you consider moving away from the NHS?
00:40 – Making the decision to go private
01:16 – How did Practice Plan reassure you?
01:34 – Trusting the process
01:51 – What was the key moment you felt this was working?
02:29 – What would you say to dentists considering a move?
02:48 – Get in touch…

If you’re thinking about moving away from the NHS and into private practice, whether fully or just partially, you can find out more by clicking here.