NHS DENTISTRY IN WALES

That this House considers that dental care is an essential component of a comprehensive healthcare service; notes with concern the decline in the availability of NHS dental care in Wales; notes further that in the areas of some local health boards there are no dentists willing to register new adult NHS patients; recognises that many patients are unable to pay for private treatment; is concerned at the potential adverse effects on the dental and overall health of Welsh patients; and calls on the Government to urge the Welsh Assembly Government to work with the dental profession with a view to agreeing a new NHS service contract that will receive the support of dental practitioners.