The table below outlines across Scotland the number of all dentists (contractors) joining, and leaving and the net effect on the number of NHS dental contractors across Scotland in the years from 2015 until 2024 (please note 2024 is part year to 27/11/2024 and includes any advance notification of resignation) Calendar year Data item 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Dentists 232 226 228 221 215 143 70 154 215 223 joining a list for first time Dentists 189 201 161 178 175 133 197 159 167 137 leaving all lists Net move 43 25 67 43 40 10 -127 -5 48 86 (positive is growth) The figures presented are for GDS contractors only, not Public Dental Service staff employed directly by Boards.