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Planned changes to NHS dentistry in Wales, which would see patients moved around different surgeries, should be halted, according to the British Dental Association (BDA) Cymru.

A consultation into the changes is entering its final phase, but the Welsh Government has been urged to backtrack.

Wales’ health secretary, Jeremy Miles, has previously described the proposals, which would come into force from April 2026, as the biggest dental reforms in nearly 20 years.

Mr Miles said the changes would make it easier for people to access NHS dentistry.

However, the BDA Cymru has warned more patients could be forced to go private as a result, along with a potential workforce exodus.

The changes would see people offered treatment at any NHS practice within their health board area, instead of regular treatments at a single practice – with check-ups for those with healthy teeth pushed to every 18 to 24 months.

The BDA Cymru has voiced concern that moving to less regular check-ups could reduce the chance for early action on diseases such as oral cancers, and block opportunities for preventative advice and treatment.

Meanwhile, the prices of treatment would also change under the reforms. The cost of a check-up would increase from £20 to £24.75, but some prices would fall – with the cost of a single crown going from £260 down to £239.15.

There would also be changes to the way dental providers are paid under the proposals, with rewards for delivering a ‘care package’ to patients with ongoing or complex needs.

But the BDA says this fails to reflect the true cost of care, and risks leaving providers at a loss.

A BDA survey found 72% of dentists would be unwilling to work under the proposed changes in their current form – with just 2% saying they thought the changes would improve patient health.

Mr Miles previously warned of issues with the current model, which is based on the “treadmill” of units of dental activity, saying substantive contract reform is required.

‘Common sense must prevail’

Negotiations between ministers, the NHS and the BDA over more than a year to design and develop the new contract ended without full agreement.

The BDA has attacked the Welsh Government for its “unwillingness” to engage with the public over the changes.

Russell Gidney, chair of the BDA’s Welsh General Dental Practice Committee, said: “On improving access and outcomes and refocusing on prevention, the Welsh Government set lofty goals, but its reforms risk achieving the exact opposite.

“Now dentists are stuck between the devil and the deep blue sea, between a failed status quo and an unpopular, untested alternative.

“Common sense must prevail. Ministers must be willing to listen, pilot plans and avoid a leap in the dark that could destroy this service.”

The Welsh Government’s consultation ends on Thursday June 19.