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Government response to the public consultation on the NHS dentistry contract: quality and payment reforms

16 December 2025

Proposing MP
Aberafan Maesteg
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Department of Health and Social Care

At a Glance

Issue Summary

The statement discusses the UK government's response to a public consultation on proposed reforms to the NHS dentistry contract, focusing on improving quality, payment structures, and access to services.

Action Requested

The government plans to implement all proposed changes from April 2026 onwards, with adjustments based on consultation feedback. The final set of changes aims to improve patient care and dental team working conditions by moving away from the current unit of dental activity payment model.

Key Facts

  • Over 2,250 responses were received during the public consultation.
  • The government will proceed with implementing all proposed changes from April 2026 onwards.
  • Additional urgent dental care appointments and £11m funding for the national supervised toothbrushing programme in deprived areas have been provided as part of a wider dental rescue plan.
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy