"The British Dental Association says the reforms are the biggest changes to what it describes as a "failed contract" since it was introduced nearly 20 years ago. The Government says that its proposals mean that those needing more complicated care, requiring numerous appointments, could save up to 225. For years, many patients have found it increasingly hard to access services, with some towns in England referred to as "dental deserts", having no available NHS dentists at all."
"Under the plans there would be new incentives for dentists to offer longer term treatments for major issues such as gum disease and tooth decay through the NHS. Currently, a patient with tooth decay in several teeth or severe gum disease - both of which require complex treatment - would need to be treated over multiple appointments, which is costly and time consuming."
People needing urgent dental treatment and patients requiring complex care will be prioritised under new Government plans to improve access to NHS dentists in England. The reforms aim to replace elements of a nearly 20-year-old contract, with the Government saying patients needing complicated, multi-appointment care could save up to £225. New incentives would encourage dentists to offer longer-term, comprehensive treatment packages for major issues such as gum disease and tooth decay, reducing multiple costly appointments. Ministers also propose reducing unnecessary routine check-ups and prioritising urgent and complex cases to better use NHS dental resources.
Read at www.bbc.com
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