Dentistry calls by MSP

LABOUR MSP Carol Mochan is calling for urgent action to ensure everyone in Dumfries and Galloway can access NHS dentistry. She spoke out on the back of figures from Public Health Scotland for the quarter ending in June 2025 showing that in Dumfries and Galloway only 65.2 per cent of the population is registered with an NHS dentist. The MSP called for leadership from the Scottish Government and discussed the role of dentistry in furthering Scotland’s health prevention agenda, arguing that good oral health plays a crucial role in preventing systemic health conditions. Carol Mochan said: “The debate in Parliament sought to highlight the difficulties people have in accessing an NHS dentist. “Access is a problem for so many. People aren’t receiving regular check-ups, and there is a consensus that it has become harder to register with and access an NHS dentist. “The SNP Government has not done enough to support our dentists and protect the ease of access for our constituents. “In the current system, patients are unable to access NHS care. Dentists are in short supply, which means that practices have vacancies they cannot fill." She described the current dentistry model as 'not fit for purpose', adding: "We must act with urgency to address this and ensure dentistry is accessible for all. “Equal access must be part of our plan. Good oral health is integral to overall health and wellbeing.”