BDA survey shows industry unhappiness with NHS dentistry

The British Dental Association (BDA) has highlighted the findings of a new industry survey highlighting the concerns dentists have with the current state of NHS dentistry.

According to the poll of dental professionals, 93 percent of dentists believe that pursuing government targets is limiting their ability to care for high-needs patients who require complex or repeat treatment.

Meanwhile, 83 percent say the system is holding them back from preventive work, while nearly 70 percent believe the contract is limiting their ability to take on NHS patients. Additionally, over 85 percent say the contract restricts the time they can spend with patients.

Although the government is now testing alternatives to the current contract, the BDA believes it remains preoccupied with models based on discredited activity targets.

Henrik Overgaard-Nielsen, chair of the BDA's General Dental Practice Committee, said: "We are seeing the results of a conveyor belt model of provision that has left dentists without the time or the freedom to deliver the treatment their patients require."