Parliament is debating the future of NHS dentistry – make sure your MP is there.
On Monday 15 June 2026, MPs will debate the future of NHS dentistry in the House of Commons.
This is a crucial opportunity for Parliament to address one of the biggest health concerns facing communities across the UK: access to NHS dental care.
Too many people are struggling to find an NHS dentist, waiting too long for treatment, or travelling significant distances to access care. For many families, access to NHS dentistry has become increasingly difficult, leading to avoidable pain, worsening oral health and greater pressure on other parts of the NHS.
The Government has committed to reforming NHS dentistry, but patients need to see meaningful progress. Action is needed to improve access to care, support the dental workforce, tackle inequalities and place prevention at the heart of the system.
Why this debate matters
Millions of people continue to face barriers to accessing NHS dental care.
Without urgent action, patients will continue to experience:
- Long waits for treatment.
- Difficulty finding an NHS dentist.
- Growing oral health inequalities.
- Increased pressure on hospital and urgent care services.
- Poorer oral health outcomes for children and vulnerable groups.
At the same time, the entire dental workforce needs support. Dentists, dental hygienists, dental therapists, dental nurses and clinical dental technicians all play a vital role in helping patients access timely care and maintain good oral health.
The Oral Health Foundation believes meaningful reform must focus on:
- Improving access to NHS dental care.
- Supporting and growing the whole dental workforce.
- Tackling oral health inequalities.
- Prioritising prevention and early intervention.
- Creating a sustainable NHS dental service for future generations.
Our From Treatment to Prevention report sets out a practical roadmap for achieving these goals and creating a dental system that prevents disease rather than simply treating it.
Take action today
Please contact your MP and ask them to attend the NHS dentistry debate and speak up for patients.
Every email helps demonstrate the importance of NHS dentistry to communities across the country.
Step 1: Find your MP
Find My MP
Step 2: Download the template letter
Download Sample Letter
Use our template letter to contact your MP and explain why improving access to NHS dentistry matters to you and your community.
Step 3: Send your email
Personalising your message with your own experiences of accessing NHS dental care can make it even more powerful.
Together, we can help ensure NHS dentistry remains high on the political agenda and push for the reforms patients need.
Make your voice heard
Access to NHS dentistry affects millions of people.
By contacting your MP today, you can help secure a future where everyone can access the dental care they need, when they need it.
Extra resources
Published:
12th June, 2026
Author:
David Arnold
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https://www.dentalhealth.org/nhs-dentistry-debate-ask-your-mp-to-stand-up-for-patients
NHS Dentistry Debate: Ask Your MP to Stand Up for Patients