🦷 TOOTHLESS IN ENGLAND - HOUSE OF COMMONS BUSINESS 22 MAY, 2025: GENERAL DEBATE ON ACCESS TO NHS DENTISTRY Embargoed until 00.01am 22 May - Statement ahead of backbench debate "Inequalities in accessible oral healthcare are evident throughout the nation. In today's debate (Access to NHS dentistry), members of Parliament will recount the crippling dental pain and suffering endured by their constituents, which continues to affect them. "During our recent meeting with Stephen Kinnock MP, the Minister for Care, we discussed the present dental crisis and argued for the Department of Health & Social Care/NHS to conduct a national oral health needs assessment. We also urged the minister to collaborate with dentists, hygienists, and dental therapists and take the lead in implementing a shift in approach towards developing a patient-needs-first strategy. By embracing a far more ambitious use of their talents, patients can experience short, medium, and long-term benefits in oral health. Better outcomes for all will ease NHS pressure later. A Win-Win! "We left that meeting with the impression that the minister recognised the value of maintaining good oral health and the benefits of accessible NHS dentistry. Actions, however, speak louder than words. To address the dental crisis and eradicate disparities in access to oral healthcare, action must be taken immediately by this government." Mark Jones, Toothless in England ENDS #nhsdentistry #nhsdentist #dentalcrisis