New sectoral agreement for public service dentists

A significant milestone has been reached in the dental sector within Malta’s public service as a new agreement has been finalised, introducing a clear and structured career progression pathway for dentists. The agreement outlines the full professional journey—from Junior Dentist to Consultant—providing clarity and long-term vision for professionals in this essential field.

For the first time, all past agreements have been consolidated into a single, cohesive document. This unified framework outlines both academic requirements and financial benefits at every stage of a dentist’s career. The structured format not only streamlines understanding but also brings transparency and predictability for those pursuing a long-term career in public dentistry.

A central feature of the agreement is a substantial enhancement of the financial package for dentists. These improvements reflect the critical contribution dental professionals make to the nation’s health system and represent a firm commitment to recognising their value within the healthcare workforce.

Moreover, the new framework addresses two key priorities in the sector: recruitment and retention. With Malta’s population steadily growing, the demand for high-quality dental services is expected to rise. This agreement is a proactive step toward ensuring the country is well-equipped to meet future oral health needs by attracting new talent and, just as importantly, retaining experienced professionals within the public system.

The agreement is the result of extensive consultation and collaboration among stakeholders, including the Health Ministry, dental professionals, and union representatives.

UHM CEO Josef Vella and Health Section Manager Annalise Casha signed the agreement on behalf of the union and employees.