NHS dentistry in Wales is set for its biggest reform in two decades, with a new government contract designed to expand access, prioritise prevention, and tailor care to individual patient needs.
The contract, scheduled to take effect in April next year, will replace the long-standing units of dental activity system. That system rewarded dentists for recalling patients every six months, regardless of clinical need. Under the new arrangement, patients will be seen based on their oral health, with those requiring treatment or support receiving more frequent appointments.
Continuity of care was a major concern during a public consultation earlier this year. The new contract will allow patients with healthy mouths to remain registered with their dentist and return for routine check-ups, rather than being moved to a central waiting list. Dental practices will receive funding for these recall appointments, giving dentists the flexibility to tailor care according to individual risk and need.
The reforms also include an increase in NHS payments to dental professionals, with hourly rates rising from £135 to £150.
Health Secretary Jeremy Miles said the changes would improve access while protecting the relationship between patients and their dental teams.
“Good oral health is vital to our quality of life,” he said. “These reforms show our commitment to making NHS dentistry more accessible, fairer, and sustainable. We know that trust in seeing the same professional over time matters. This contract ensures continuity is maintained.”
Patient charges are also being simplified. Those who pay will now contribute 50% of the cost of their treatment package, capped at £384. This is a reduction from the 55% originally proposed. Around half of people in Wales, including children, pregnant women, and those on certain benefits, are exempt from dental charges.
Responses to the consultation, published this week, showed strong support for the reforms among both patients and professionals. Dentists welcomed extra funding to support new cluster working arrangements, which aim to break down barriers between services and place greater emphasis on preventative care.
Mr Miles added: “Every person in Wales deserves quality dental care when they need it, no matter where they live or their background. Change is needed, and this contract is key to delivering a system that works better for everyone.”