‘Change in approach’ needed for NHS dentistry, says BDA

The professional body has said the government must soften the blow of the budget announced in October 2024, as it warns there will be a steep rise in costs for all dental practices with no corresponding support.

The BDA has said the treasury will ultimately dictate whether government pledges to ‘save’ NHS dentistry are delivered, with many practices already providing some NHS treatments at a financial loss.

Letter to the chancellor

“Dear chancellor,

We are writing on behalf of dental practices and practitioners across the UK following the budget released in October 2024.

The Nuffield Trust has warned that there is an access crisis to dentistry unlike any we have previously seen. This is a genuinely existential threat that has left millions of patients with no options.