NHS dentistry provision locally is a massive priority issue and one I am continuously raising both with ministers and local health service commissioners, following various issues being raised with me by local people relating to access challenges across the constituency. I therefore wanted to provide an update on the Government’s recent announcement to help recover and reform NHS dentistry, the detail of which is reflected in the update I have received on this issue from the Minister, which you can see below.
Rightly, everyone should be able to see an NHS dentist and be able to receive treatment quickly and easily when they need it. That is why improving access to NHS dentistry is one of the Government's key priorities for the health service. Backed by £200 million of funding, the Government’s new 'Dental Recovery Plan' will deliver 2.5 million extra appointments in England over the next year, where they are needed most. New dental vans will be launched to improve access to NHS dentists in coastal and rural areas and dentists will be given a greater incentive to work in underserved areas, with a one-off payment of £20,000. New patient payments will be provided to NHS dentists to prioritise treating adults and children who have not seen a dentist for two years or more.
The Government also recognises the urgency to increase dental appointments for children. Some progress has been made, with 800,000 more dental appointments in 2022/23 compared to the previous year. However, there is much more to be done, which is why the 'Smile for Life Programme' is being launched to offer advice to parents about encouraging tooth brushing and avoiding tooth decay in children.
I also recognise that increasing the number of NHS dentists is crucial to recovering NHS dental services in England. Last year, the Government took action to reduce barriers to overseas dentists being able to register and work in the NHS. As part of the 'NHS Long Term Workforce Plan', the number of dental training places will increase to over 1,100 by 2031/32.
Improving access to NHS dentistry across England will take time, but I am confident that these measures will help to deliver extra NHS dental appointment capacity where they are needed most - and I am very aware of the need for greater capacity here in Corby & East Northamptonshire and so I am making enquiries of Northamptonshire Integrated Care Board about how we best harness the opportunities of this latest announcement to better the local picture. I shall provide further updates here as I have them.