The Welsh Government has made a decision regarding the plea for a new dental school in Wales, with campaigners arguing that establishing a second dental school in the country could help alleviate the crisis within the industry. The plea for a new dental school, particularly in north Wales, has been raised due to concerns about the state of dentistry in the region. Despite bipartisan support for the idea, the Welsh Government stated that it was unable to provide funding for the proposed dental school.
Plaid Cymru’s Arfon MS, Siân Gwenllian, led a debate in the Senedd advocating for the establishment of a dental school in Bangor. She highlighted the need for improved access to NHS dentists in Wales, especially in north Wales where the situation is reportedly even more dire. Gwenllian emphasised the success of the North Wales Medical School at Bangor University and proposed that a dental school would be a natural progression to address the growing demand for dental services.
During the Senedd debate, it was revealed that 31% of dental practices in Wales have vacancies, with the figure escalating to 40% in the Betsi Cadwaladr health board area. Labour’s Carolyn Thomas echoed the urgency of the situation, noting the challenges in retaining dentists within the health service due to private practice being more financially rewarding. Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth shared concerns about the withdrawal of NHS services by a dental surgery in his constituency, underscoring the pressing nature of the crisis in dentistry.
In response to the calls for a new dental school, Wales’ health minister Jeremy Miles acknowledged the need for more dental training opportunities but cited financial constraints as a limiting factor. While there are currently 74 training places available annually at Wales’ only school of dentistry in Cardiff, expanding these opportunities poses challenges. Miles emphasised ongoing reforms in dental contracts aimed at enhancing access to NHS care and highlighted the role of therapists and hygienists in the future dental workforce as Wales transitions towards a preventive healthcare approach.
In conclusion, the debate surrounding the establishment of a new dental school in Wales reflects the growing concerns about the accessibility and quality of dental services, particularly in north Wales. While the Welsh Government has acknowledged the need for improved dental training opportunities, financial considerations currently hinder the immediate establishment of a second dental school. The conversation continues as stakeholders explore options to address the challenges facing the dental industry in Wales.