Scotland’s oral health challenges require more than warm words

BDA Scotland has sought feedback on proposals from across its membership and elected representatives.

Robert Donald, chair of the Scottish Dental Practice Committee, said: "Despite 33 proposals, Scotland’s Oral Health Plan is short on detail. Warm words on tackling oral health inequalities, refocusing effort on prevention and meeting the challenges of an ageing population are sadly undermined by the total lack of references to additional funding anywhere in the document. 

"This profession shares the Scottish Government's aspirations on prevention. We have an opportunity to deliver a real UK first with preventive pathways and build on significant gains made through Childsmile and other initiatives. However, it is unclear how further breakthroughs can be achieved without appropriate funding. There is already insufficient funding for NHS dental treatment and if an oral health risk assessment is to be implemented, it is essential that it is properly resourced. 

“Together we can take Scotland’s pioneering work on prevention to the next level. So let’s talk about narrowing inequalities, better diet and turning the tide on oral cancer. If the Scottish Government can start recognising the challenges this profession faces, we can make real progress on all these fronts.”