Welsh Government announces new NHS dental contract to improve access and fairness
Welsh Government announces new NHS dental contract to improve access and fairness
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A major reform of NHS dentistry in Wales has been announced, with a new contract set to come into effect in April 2026 aimed at improving access, fairness and quality of care.
The changes mark the first overhaul of the dental contract in 20 years and will replace the current system based on units of dental activity, which pays dentists to recall patients every six months regardless of their needs.
Under the new arrangements, patients will instead be seen according to their oral health needs. Those requiring active treatment or support will be prioritised, while those with good oral health will continue to see their regular dentist for recall appointments.
The Welsh Government confirmed that revisions were made to the proposals following consultation over the summer, after continuity of care emerged as a key concern.
Originally, patients with healthy mouths were expected to return to a central waiting list – the Dental Access Portal – until their next scheduled check-up. Instead, they will now maintain an ongoing relationship with their chosen dentist.
Dental practices will also receive payments to continue recall appointments for existing patients, allowing dentists to monitor oral health based on individual risk and need.
As part of the reforms, NHS payments to dentists will rise, with general fee rates increasing from the originally proposed £135 to £150 per hour.
Health Secretary Jeremy Miles said: “Good oral health is vital to our quality of life. These reforms demonstrate our commitment to making NHS dentistry more accessible, fairer, and sustainable for both patients and professionals. We have listened to people and it is clear the trust and reassurance which comes with seeing the same dental professional over time is valued. We are making sure this is maintained in the new contract.”
The consultation responses, published on Tuesday, showed strong support for the reforms among dental professionals.
Patient charges are also being simplified. Those who pay for NHS treatment will be charged 50% of their treatment package value, capped at £384. This replaces the 55% rate originally proposed and is designed to keep care affordable while protecting patients from unexpected costs.
Around half of people in Wales – including children under 18, pregnant women, hospital dental patients and those on certain benefits – are exempt from charges. The low-income scheme will continue to provide additional help with costs.
The reforms also include additional funding for accelerated cluster development, designed to bring dental professionals into closer collaboration across the NHS and strengthen preventative care.
Jeremy Miles added: “Every person in Wales deserves quality dental care when they need it, regardless of where they live or their background. Change is needed, and our new dental contract is key in delivering what people want – a system which is fair and effective. And it is thanks to public feedback and professional expertise across Wales that we are able to do this.”
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