Dentists seek funding that covers rising practice costs in Wales

The British Dental Association is seeking funding for rising practice costs as well as staff pay in negotiations over the 2026-27 NHS dental contract in Wales. In a statement of its priorities, the union says a pay award recommended by the doctors’ and dentists’ remuneration review body should reach the workforce, with separate support for practice overheads.

What dentists are asking for

Dan Cook and Katie Davis, vice chairs of the Welsh General Dental Practice Committee, identify National Insurance, minimum wage rates and other employment costs among the pressures on practices. They want funding calculations to reflect the costs of staffing, materials, equipment, energy and compliance more accurately. The BDA also says additional activity or administrative duties should come with the resources needed to carry them out. The statement sets out negotiating demands. It does not announce an agreed percentage increase or a new settlement with the Welsh Government.

The government’s position

In a written statement on 28 July, the Welsh Government acknowledged continuing difficulties accessing NHS dentistry, particularly in rural areas. It said the new contract emphasised prevention and care based on clinical need, replacing the Unit of Dental Activity measure. That statement said the full effects of reform would take time to assess. It predates the BDA’s latest priorities and is not a fresh response to them.