In a recent development that could bring a sigh of relief to many, a dentist has shed light on the upcoming NHS dentistry reforms set to take effect in 2026. Dr. Emi Mawson has analyzed a new announcement from the Department of Health and Social Care, outlining forthcoming changes in England that promise to aid those facing intricate dental issues. Touted by the government as a “major overhaul” and “the most significant modernization of the NHS dental contract in years,” these changes follow extensive consultations with dental professionals and the public earlier this year.

In a TikTok video, Dr. Mawson summarized, “Here’s what the reforms mean for you.” She highlighted that one of the most significant updates is the improved accessibility of urgent dental care. “This means if you’re suffering from a toothache, dental trauma, or an infection, you’ll be able to secure a dental appointment closer to home, faster, and with greater ease,” she explained.

Dr. Mawson also noted enhancements in the treatment of complex dental cases. Patients with severe dental conditions are likely to receive comprehensive long-term treatment plans rather than undergoing multiple “small appointments,” she elaborated.

Moreover, Dr. Mawson pointed out a substantial improvement for children’s dental health. “There will be a stronger focus on preventive measures, such as the application of fluoride varnish and fissure sealants,” she said. “Additionally, plans to expand water fluoridation and implement supervised brushing schemes for three to five-year-olds aim to benefit up to 600,000 children.”

The Department of Health and Social Care has confirmed these initiatives will commence in April 2026. The primary objective is to make NHS dentistry “more accessible and fair,” especially for patients needing urgent care, while also stressing the importance of preventive practices. As health policy is a devolved matter, these changes will apply solely to England.

Despite the positive outlook, Dr. Mawson expressed a concern in her video caption, stating, “I worry that NHS dentistry might turn into an emergency-only service.”

Responding to her video, one TikTok user complained: “I can’t even get an NHS dentist appointment. I don’t want to wait until I need urgent care.” Another person commented: “Until they actually increase the amount paid to dentists for NHS services, we won’t get to a point where we can have greater access closer to home. Dentists just aren’t taking up more than they have to. Often working at a financial loss.”

A third argued: “The only solution is to have a fair payment to dentists. Nothing else will work. Itemised fee structure reflecting true costs. The government will realise the costs will be close to private costs. Sadly anything short of this will not work at all.”

While a fourth TikTok user observed: “This sounds good, or better. But there’s not enough dentists. Why can’t the government fund dentists? When they pass they have to work in the NHS to repay the cost of tuition before they can go private.”

Care minister Stephen Kinnock commented on the reforms: “These changes will make it easier for anyone with urgent dental needs to get NHS treatment, preventing painful conditions from spiralling into avoidable hospital admissions.

“This is about putting patients first and supporting those with the greatest need, while backing our NHS dentists, making the contract more attractive, and giving them the resources to deliver more. This marks the first step towards a new era for NHS dentistry after a decade of decline, one that delivers for patients and our dedicated dental professionals.”

Jason Wong, England’s chief dental officer, stated: “Dentists have been working tirelessly to care for patients, and I want to thank them for their dedication. We listened closely to the profession, and these reforms are centred on improving patients’ experience, from getting urgent care more easily to supporting longer-term and preventative treatment, especially for children.”