Earlier this week (24/05/23) Darlington MP, Peter Gibson took part in an adjournment debate on dentistry in Durham.
Health Minister, Neil O’Brien confirmed that a comprehensive dental reform plan is underway and that this overhaul will address the 2006 contract made under the Labour government, which limits dentist’s ability to take on more patients.
The Minister also went on to confirm that there are 1,473 more NHS dentists across the UK since 2010, this is a 6.5% increase.
Peter Gibson MP suggested that introducing dentistry into schools would be a solution to counteract the difficulties residents in Darlington are facing in accessing appointments, alleviating dental practices of pressure on appointment availability and ensure that children have regular access to dental treatment. This regular access to dental care will also ensure that children get regular check-ups.
Peter Gibson said, “I am delighted that the Minister welcomed my idea for dentistry in schools and I look forward to seeing what plans are put into motion on this in the future.
“There is a lot of misinformation about the figures on dentistry and I glad that the Minister was able to clarify once and for all the exact figures of the increase in NHS dentists across the UK. I will continue to raise the issue with local health authorities to see what can be done in the immediate to address dentistry in Darlington.”
