Archive · 18 Dec 2025
NHS England Announces Dental Reforms
The NHS in England is changing how dentists get paid to help more people get the dental care they need.
Right now, it's hard for some people to find a dentist, especially if they have big problems.
The new plan will let dentists get paid more for taking care of these complex issues.
This means patients might not have to go to as many appointments and could save money.
The changes start in April, but some experts say it's not a complete fix.
They also say more dentists are needed to make sure everyone can get care.
The government promises a new dental contract soon, but it's not clear if it will include the right to register with a dentist like before.
NHS England announces reforms to prioritize urgent and complex dental needs.
Changes include shifting from per-unit payment to treatment packages for complex care.
Patients with complex problems could save up to £225 with the new system.
Reforms to be implemented in April 2024, with a new dental contract promised by the end of the Parliament.
Dentists broadly welcome the reforms but highlight a shortage of over 2,500 dentists in NHS England.
- Who
- NHS England and Health Minister Stephen Kinnock
- What
- Announced reforms to NHS dental contracts
- When
- Implementation in April 2024
- Where
- England
- Why
- To prioritize urgent and complex dental needs and improve access
- Reform Focus
- Prioritize urgent and complex dental needs
- Payment Change
- Shift from per-unit payment to treatment packages
- Potential Savings
- Up to £225 for patients with complex problems
- Implementation Date
- April 2024
- Dentist Shortage
- Over 2,500 dentists needed in NHS England
- Current Contract Issue
- Under-remuneration for complex care
- Expert Opinion
- Reforms are a 'tweak' not a full overhaul
- New Contract Promise
- By the end of the current Parliament