Access to NHS dental care remains a critical issue for millions across England, with growing concerns over affordability and availability. For years, patients have reported difficulties securing appointments, leading some to resort to desperate measures, including attempting DIY dental work. Healthwatch, the national consumer champion for health and social care, has been at the forefront of advocating for systemic change, and continues to push for fundamental reforms to ensure equitable access to dental services for all.
The current state of NHS dentistry has been described as an “access crisis,” with a system struggling to meet the needs of the population. A key misconception, highlighted by recent research, is that individuals have an automatic right to register with an NHS dentist, similar to the process with a General Practitioner (GP). In reality, this right does not exist, a situation stemming from changes to the NHS dental contract introduced in 2006, which shifted payment structures from per-patient registration to per-unit of dental activity. Healthwatch is advocating for a return to a system where patients can register with a local NHS dentist for ongoing care.
Years of Campaigning for Change
Healthwatch has been documenting problems with NHS dentistry since its launch in 2013, publishing its first major report on the topic in 2016. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly worsened existing access issues, prompting the launch of the #fixNHSdentistry campaign to raise awareness and demand action. Following sustained advocacy, NHS England implemented changes to the dental contract in 2022, requiring dental contractors to regularly update their availability on the NHS website. However, these changes have not fully addressed the underlying issues.
In 2023, representatives from both national and local Healthwatch organizations presented evidence to the House of Commons Health and Social Care Committee inquiry into dental services. The committee’s final report acknowledged the access crisis, stating that “Everyone should be able to access an NHS dentist when they need one, wherever they live.” Healthwatch England’s research revealed that over two-thirds (68%) of people incorrectly believe they have the right to register with an NHS dentist.
Desperate Measures and Lack of Progress
The severity of the access problem was further illustrated in March 2024, when Healthwatch presented evidence to MPs detailing instances of individuals resorting to dangerous DIY dental procedures due to a lack of available NHS appointments. In one particularly concerning case, a person overdosed on borrowed painkillers while attempting to self-treat a dental problem. This underscores the urgent need for improved access to professional dental care.
Healthwatch also provided evidence to a National Audit Office (NAO) inquiry examining the impact of the previous Government’s Dental Recovery Plan. The NAO’s findings, released in late 2024, aligned with Healthwatch’s assessment: the plan had not resulted in the anticipated increase in NHS dental appointments for novel patients. This lack of progress highlights the need for a more comprehensive and effective strategy to address the ongoing access challenges.
Ongoing Advocacy and Data Transparency
Healthwatch continues to analyze feedback from the public and share its findings with officials at the Department of Health and Social Care. A key focus remains on securing transparent data regarding the number of extra urgent dental appointments provided on the NHS since the 2024 election. Currently, data on progress towards other government pledges, such as reductions in hospital waiting lists, are regularly published, and Healthwatch is advocating for the same level of transparency for dental services. Healthwatch is calling for fundamental reform of NHS dentistry, including giving people the right to register with a local NHS dentist, similar to the GP system.
Looking ahead, Healthwatch will continue to monitor the implementation of planned changes to the way dentists are paid for NHS work, ensuring that these reforms prioritize patient access and affordability. The organization remains committed to advocating for a sustainable and equitable NHS dental system that meets the needs of all communities across England.
Disclaimer: This article provides information for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It’s essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
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