NHS dentistry ‘left to rot’
CONCERNS have been raised over a reduction in the number of dentists carrying out NHS procedures.
Figures released after a freedom of information request show there are 36 fewer dentists doing NHS work in the local health board area – NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde – compared to four years ago.
The Scottish Liberal Democrats, who obtained the latest statistics, have accused the Scottish Government of leaving NHS dentistry “to rot.”
Across the country as a whole, the number of dentists performing NHS work fell from 3,407 in 2019/20 to 3,240 in 2023/24.
Alex Cole-Hamilton, leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats, said: “A concerning number of dentists are no longer offering NHS services because of the low rates they receive for that work and the endless barriers and red tape thrown in their way by SNP ministers.
“For years, the SNP have left NHS dentistry to rot. Toothcare, just like any other form of healthcare, should be universally accessible.
“It cannot just be for those who can afford to go private.”
Officials at the British Dental Association (BDA) said the new data “only begins to show the risks facing the service,” as it doesn’t take into account the mix of NHS and private work that many dentists undertake.
David McColl, chair of the BDA’s Scottish Dental Practice Committee, added: “For years the broken system NHS dentistry works to has left dedicated colleagues looking to the exit.
“We’ve seen some reform but time will tell if it’s enough to put a halt to this exodus.
“One point is abundantly clear – if this service is going to have a future, there can be no complacency at Holyrood.”
The Scottish Government said the number of dentists has been impacted by Brexit and the unique challenges of the Covid pandemic.
A spokesperson added: “NHS Education for Scotland statistics showed an encouraging increase from March 31, 2023, to September 30, 2023. This reflects the continued recovery in NHS dental services from the conclusion of the pandemic.
“We have introduced significant dental payment reforms to encourage more dentists to provide more NHS dentistry.
“In the first month following these changes, nearly 400,000 patients were seen by an NHS primary care dentist – an early indication that our reforms are working.
“While improving conditions for the existing workforce, we continue to work with counterparts across the UK and devolved governments to improve workforce pathways for international dentists.”