The Welsh Government has launched an ambitious plan to overhaul its NHS General Dental Services (GDS) contract — a reform many are calling a potential model for the rest of the UK. But is it really the answer to the UK’s dental crisis? In this blog, we explore what Wales is doing differently, debate the pros and cons, and examine what this could mean for patients and dentists across the country.
What’s Happening in Wales? A Quick Summary
In early 2025, the Welsh Government published its updated framework for NHS dentistry — focusing on improving access, patient outcomes, and prevention.
Key elements include:
- A risk-based model: Prioritising patients based on clinical need rather than just treatment activity.
- Preventive dentistry: Shifting focus from ‘drill and fill’ to long-term oral health.
- Contract monitoring: Implementing stricter, transparent measures for service quality.
- A clear intent to reduce inequalities in dental care.
You can read the full Equality Impact Assessment and reform documentation here:
👉 Welsh Government NHS Dental Reform
Debate: Is the Welsh Model the Future of NHS Dentistry?
The Case For Reform
1. Prioritising Prevention = Long-Term Savings
Focusing on prevention can reduce costly treatments down the line. This shift could help patients avoid chronic dental problems before they start.
2. Better Access for Those Who Need It Most
A needs-based approach means vulnerable patients — like those with disabilities or chronic illness — aren’t pushed to the back of the queue behind routine check-ups.
3. Tackling Inequality Head-On
By monitoring access and outcomes across different social groups, this reform aims to ensure fairer care for all — especially in rural and deprived communities.
The Concerns and Challenges
1. More Pressure, Not Less?
Many practices in Wales report they’re already under strain. Adding new requirements — without increasing funding or workforce — may only increase burnout.
2. Can It Scale Across the UK?
England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland have far greater patient volumes. Can a system designed for Wales scale without collapsing under pressure?
3. Who’s Watching the Watchdogs?
Stronger contract monitoring sounds good in theory. But who ensures that the new data, forms, and inspections won’t become more red tape for already stretched practices?
NHS Dentistry in the UK: A System Under Pressure
The situation across the UK is bleak. According to a recent Commons report:
- Over 90% of practices in England are not accepting new adult NHS patients.
- Some patients are resorting to DIY dentistry due to lack of access.
- Children’s oral health is suffering — with tooth decay still the leading cause of hospital admissions in under-10s.
What If the Welsh Reform Rolled Out UK-Wide?
If successful, the Welsh model could inspire reform across the UK. But this would require:
- National funding commitment
- Workforce expansion
- Improved dental training incentives
- Close collaboration with both NHS and private sectors
It could reset the balance of care — but only if implemented with care, support, and transparency.
Why Many Are Turning to Private Dental Care
With NHS waitlists growing and urgent needs unmet, patients are increasingly turning to private options. While some worry about cost, others are finding the benefits outweigh the drawbacks — especially when timely care matters most.
👉 5 reasons why it’s worth paying to go private for your emergency dental appointment
Conclusion: Progress or Publicity?
Wales may be on the right track — focusing on the things NHS dentistry has long been criticised for ignoring: prevention, equity, and real-world outcomes. But the true test will be whether it can deliver what it promises without further burdening dentists or abandoning patients who fall through the cracks.
For patients across the UK, this reform sparks both hope and hesitation.
Will it be the model for a better system — or just another idea that falls short?
We’ll be watching closely.