ABSTRACT
Introduction An increasing proportion of the dental workforce is female and it is predicted that by 2020 over 50% of practising dentists will be women.1 In October 2000 just over 50% of UK dental schools entrants were female. Dentists of both sexes are becoming increasingly interested in part-time and/or flexible working patterns as they seek a better work-life balance. Dentistry is a perfect career for those who want to train and work part-time. Although on-call commitments are necessary in many branches of medicine, the on-call commitments in dentistry are minimal, which suits those for whom part-time training and work ing is important. Employers are beginning to understand that recruitment and retention of female dentists depends on flexible working opportunities.
