A new dental contract for Wales will improve access to NHS
dentistry for everyone as health needs and prevention are put at
the heart of the new system.
The new dental contract will transform how services are delivered
across Wales – improving access, fairness, and quality of care.
This is the first major reform of the contract in 20 years and
will replace the units of dental activity contract, which pays
dentists to recall patients every six months, regardless of
whether they have any problems.
The new contract, which will come into effect in April 2026, will
mean people will be seen based on their oral health needs – those
who need active treatment or support to maintain their oral
health will be seen more regularly.
A series of changes have been made to the contract proposals over
the summer after continuity of care emerged as a key priority
during the consultation phase.
This will mean people with the healthiest mouths will maintain
their relationship with their chosen dentist through recall
appointments, rather than returning to a central waiting list –
the Dental Access Portal – until their next scheduled
appointment, as originally proposed.
Under the reformed system, practices will receive payments to
continue seeing existing patients for recall appointments, giving
dentists the freedom to monitor oral health based on individual
risk and need.
The new contract will also see increased NHS payments to
dentists, with general fee rates rising from the proposed £135 to
£150 per hour.
Health Secretary 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, which are being published today
(Tuesday), showed strong support for reform among dental
professionals.
Patient charges have been simplified under the new system.
Under the new system, those who pay for NHS treatment will pay
50% of their treatment package value, capped at a maximum of £384
regardless of how much care they need. This is a reduction from
the 55% originally proposed. It ensures NHS dental care remains
affordable and protects patients from unexpected costs.
Around half the Welsh population is exempt from paying NHS dental
charges, including children under 18, pregnant women, hospital
dental patients, and people receiving certain benefits.
The low-income scheme will continue providing help with costs
based on individual circumstances.
The reforms also include increased funding for accelerated
cluster development to support dental professionals' engagement
in breaking down silos in dentistry provision and involve teams
in wider NHS reform, particularly in preventative care.
Health Secretary 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.”
