Llais statement on the shortage of dentists in Wales
Recent reports from dentists and the British Dental Association raise serious concerns about the future of NHS dentistry in Wales.
This echoes what Llais highlighted in our calls for action in November.
From April to September 2024, we heard from over 12,000 people, and one of the most frequent issues raised was the difficulty they had in getting an NHS dentist appointment.
We have heard from huge numbers of people who do not have an NHS dentist or are stuck on long waiting lists. Some patients have resorted to DIY dental care, including using temporary filling materials, due to the lack of available treatment.
“I've always been proud of my teeth but now use temporary shop bought filling material. It's very, very upsetting. And has knocked my confidence to talk to people”
The shift towards private dentistry is pricing out lower-income families, with some reporting no NHS dental practices available in their area.
“NHS dentistry is extremely difficult to access. The dentists are prioritising private patients for a reason. This must be rectified. Dentistry should be available to all.”
“It is ludicrously overpriced and that needs improving, people don’t have a disposable income. If you’re poor, you don’t stand a chance in looking after your oral health.”
Children, older people, disabled individuals, and low-income families are amongst those most affected, with evidence showing that children in areas of deprivation receive far less dental care.
“My children are 8, 9 and 10 years old and haven't seen a dentist in their lives. NHS dentists need to be available to everybody who needs it, especially children.”
This cannot continue.
We know there is work being done to improve the situation, such as Welsh Government’s commitment to reforming the NHS dental contract and the centralised waiting list, but progress remains too slow and the plan is unclear. People have been waiting for years, and we need solutions now.
Welsh Government must take urgent action on this issue, working together with the dental profession and patients to make sure the NHS dental contract meets the needs of all everyone.
NHS dentistry must be protected and strengthened to ensure fair access for all.
Full details of our dental care position statement here: