The British Dental Association (BDA) has reaffirmed its support for the piloting of the reforms in Professor Steele’s review of dentistry, following today’s announcement that at least 30 dental practices have been selected to trial new ways of improving services for patients. The pilots, which are expected to take place over a two-year period, will include the trial of a blended contract which is intended to reward dentists for the number of patients they see, the level of each treatment each patients receives and the quality of the care that is provided.

Dr John Milne, Chair of the BDA’s General Dental Practice Committee, said:

“The British Dental Association has called for reform to deliver an NHS dental system that works better for patients and dentists alike, and we support the process of piloting the conclusions of Professor Steele’s review.

“The two keys to the success of these pilots are meaningful engagement with the profession and proper evaluation of their results. Engagement so far has been good and must continue. These pilots must now be given the time they need to properly assess the proposed changes and allow reflection on the results they produce.”

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Notes to editors

1. The British Dental Association (BDA) is the professional association for dentists in the UK. It represents 23,000 dentists working in general practice, in community and hospital settings, in academia and research, and in the armed forces. It also includes dental students.
2. For further information, please contact the BDA’s media team on 0207 563 4145/46 or visit www.bda.org.