Scotland’s Dental Services Face Strain as Spending Rises

Concerns are growing about the sustainability of Scotland’s dental services following a significant rise in spending. According to figures obtained by the Labour Party through freedom of information requests, funding for the Public Dental Service has increased from £76,549,151 in the 2022-23 financial year to £84,214,745 in 2024-25. This service is crucial for individuals unable to access private dental care, including those in long-term care and those with specific health needs.

The data reveals that only two health board areas, NHS Lothian and NHS Tayside, experienced a reduction in their expenditure on the Public Dental Service. In contrast, NHS Dumfries and Galloway reported a staggering 35% increase in spending over the same period. Other areas, such as NHS Fife and NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, also saw significant rises of 28% and 26%, respectively.

Labour’s dental spokesman, Paul Sweeney, expressed alarm over these statistics, stating they illustrate a troubling disparity in access to dental care across the country. He remarked, “While there will always be some who cannot independently access dental care, the fact that many Scots are struggling to find an NHS dentist will only heap more pressure on this crucial safety net.” Sweeney further emphasized that under the current administration, “Scotland’s dental system is wobbling on the SNP’s watch — Scots should not have to choose between raiding their savings or excruciating pain.”

In response, a spokesperson for the Scottish Government defended the funding increases, noting that spending on primary care dental services has risen by almost 15% in the Scottish Budget, bringing total funding to over £500 million for the first time. The spokesperson acknowledged that access to NHS dentistry remains a challenge, particularly in rural and island communities, despite ongoing investments.

The spokesperson added, “We continue to make available a range of additional financial support to areas where access is particularly challenging, demonstrated in our increased support for those boards.” The spokesperson also pointed to broader issues impacting workforce availability, including the UK Government’s policies on employers’ national insurance, restrictions on the Skilled Worker Visa, and the lack of progression regarding provisional registration for international dentists.

Public health minister Jenni Minto has communicated with the UK Government regarding these workforce challenges and has received assurances that options to increase the NHS dental workforce are being explored.

As the debate over the state of dental services in Scotland unfolds, the emphasis remains on ensuring that all citizens can access the care they need without facing financial hardship or undue delay.