A new community-led group has been launched to address what an MP has described as “shocking” access to NHS dental services in North Cornwall.
The North Cornwall Dental Group (NCDG) aims to bring together dentists, health partners and community organisations to support local NHS dental provision and improve access for residents.
Ben Maguire, MP for North Cornwall, said many people in the area are unable to see an NHS dentist, even in urgent cases. “Too many people here cannot get the care they need, and that is simply not acceptable,” he said.
NCDG plans to work closely with The Goods Shed in Wadebridge to explore creating a dedicated clinical space for community dental treatment. Proposed facilities could include X-ray equipment and dental treatment chairs, with the goal of supporting NHS services locally and reducing the need for residents to travel long distances or pay for private care.
According to a 2024 Healthwatch Cornwall report, 34.5% of adults in Cornwall had not been able to see an NHS dentist in the previous two years. Mr Maguire said the situation was particularly concerning given that Cornwall’s Integrated Care Board (ICB) underspent its dental services budget by £8m in one recent year.
“Our North Cornwall Dental Action Group will focus on practical, deliverable solutions that work on the ground,” he said.
The Goods Shed said it was keen to support the initiative. Trustee Stephen Knightley said many local families were struggling to access even basic dental treatment. “Our community is in dire need of accessible dental care, and we are confident this project can make a real difference,” he said.
NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Integrated Care Board said it welcomed the initiative and would be happy to work with NCDG. A spokesperson said the ICB had already introduced several measures to increase access, including a new mobile dental van for vulnerable patients, rural communities and those facing long waits.
The ICB said it had also provided thousands of additional urgent and emergency dental appointments, secured extra NHS dental contracts in high-need areas, and supported local dentist recruitment. It also highlighted its partnership with Smile Together Dental CIC, which provides oral health education to primary school children.
The spokesperson added that anyone needing urgent dental care should contact their own dentist first. Those without a dentist can call Smile Together, Cornwall’s emergency dental service, or NHS 111 outside normal working hours.