Plans to develop dentistry education across north and mid Wales have been welcomed as a response to a reported shortage of dental services in the region. Bangor University and Aberystwyth University have jointly submitted a proposal to the Welsh government to establish a co-led dental school aimed at strengthening primary and community dental care, including provision for Welsh-speaking communities.
According to Bangor University, the proposal involves establishing dental education centres across the two regions, managed collaboratively by both institutions. The school would draw on existing resources, including Bangor University’s North Wales Medical School and School of Health Science, and Aberystwyth University’s expertise in nursing and rural health, with a focus on the specific needs of rural and semi-rural populations.
Political and academic support
The proposal has received backing from politicians and academics. Plaid Cymru representatives highlighted the initiative as a positive step following a long-running campaign by Arfon MS Siân Gwenllian. In 2024, Gwenllian commissioned the “Filling the Gaps” report, which outlined the academic, clinical, and economic rationale for a Bangor-based dental school. A public petition and subsequent Senedd debate helped secure cross-party support for a formal strategic case.
Gwenllian commented: “Expanding dental training in Bangor is a logical step, and collaboration with Aberystwyth can help accelerate progress. The dental workforce crisis in the north is deepening, and bold, collaborative action is required to meet community needs.”
Rhun ap Iorwerth, Plaid Cymru leader and Ynys Môn MS, described the proposal as “an exciting and welcomed development” at a time of significant challenges for dentistry across Wales. Similarly, Elin Jones, Senedd Llywydd and MS for Ceredigion, highlighted limited access to NHS dentistry in mid Wales and emphasised the potential to increase the number of Welsh-speaking dentists through expanded training opportunities.
University perspectives
Bangor University’s vice-provost and head of the College of Medicine & Health, Professor Mike Larvin, noted that the planning is at an early stage, but the university is committed to developing the dental school. He added that collaboration with the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board and private providers has strengthened existing dental hygiene and dental therapy programmes, positioning the university to implement the proposals when policy and funding permit.
Professor Iain Barber, pro vice-chancellor for the faculty of sciences at Aberystwyth University, emphasised the potential local impact: “There is a well-recognised shortage of dental professionals in our communities. Evidence from the medical profession shows a strong link between where students train and where they choose to practice.”
Cardiff University’s school of dentistry, through Professor Nicola Innes, also expressed support for the initiative, indicating willingness to contribute to initial planning and ensure training opportunities are available across Wales, building on experiences with the North Wales Medical School.
Looking ahead
The joint proposal by Bangor and Aberystwyth universities aims to address gaps in dental education and service provision in rural and semi-rural Wales. By developing a new dental school, the institutions hope to strengthen local dental services, expand the workforce, and improve access for Welsh-speaking communities.
Source: Nation.Cymru
