Dental News Recap July 2025
(GB) United Kingdom
Overseas-trained dentists flipping burgers while NHS patients wait
Thousands of fully qualified dentists from overseas are unable to work in the UK due to the limited availability of the Overseas Registration Examination (ORE). Instead, many are forced into low-paid jobs like fast food service, while the NHS faces a growing access crisis with over 4.5 million people unable to see a dentist. The Association of Dental Groups (ADG) is calling for urgent reform to the GDC's registration system.
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MPs call NHS dental recovery plan a “complete failure”
A parliamentary report has slammed the NHS dental recovery plan, citing that initiatives like golden hellos and mobile clinics have made negligible impact. Recruitment targets have not been met, and the number of patients accessing NHS care continues to fall. MPs are demanding a complete overhaul of the dental contract system.
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GDC releases major workforce insights
The General Dental Council has published findings from its latest survey involving nearly 44,000 dental care professionals. The data sheds light on working patterns, job satisfaction, geographical distribution, and workload. These insights are expected to help shape future workforce strategies and regulatory decisions.
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Bupa opens cutting-edge training centre in Staines
Bupa has launched a new clinical training centre in Staines equipped with the latest dental technologies including virtual reality, 3D printing, and AI simulation. The facility is designed to address ongoing skills shortages by providing immersive, hands-on training for both dentists and dental nurses.
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BDA warns immigration changes could worsen crisis
The British Dental Association has raised concerns that proposed changes to immigration policy may prevent overseas-qualified dentists from working in the UK while awaiting registration. The BDA warns this could worsen already severe workforce shortages and reduce access to care in underserved areas.
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(AU) Australia
Tooth tax floated to fund new clinics in Tasmania
The Greens party has proposed a new levy on large corporations to fund 30 community dental clinics across Tasmania. Senator Nick McKim argues that the state has some of the poorest oral health outcomes in the country and that bold measures are needed to ensure access to basic dental services.
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ADA: 1.5 million children missing out on dental benefits
The Australian Dental Association has highlighted that more than 1.5 million children are missing out on the Child Dental Benefits Schedule. The low uptake is attributed to poor promotion and confusion among parents. The ADA is urging the government to launch a national awareness campaign.
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New programme gives UK grads a supported year in Australia
A new employment programme offers UK dental graduates a chance to work in Australia for one year with full clinical support. The initiative aims to enhance early-career development while helping to meet demand in regional and rural communities across Australia.
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(NZ) New Zealand
NZDA opens 2025 Young Dentists Volunteer Grant
The New Zealand Dental Association has announced the opening of the 2025 ICD Young Dentists Volunteer Grant. The grant provides up to AU$3,500 in funding for dental professionals who wish to volunteer their skills in the Pacific Islands and underserved communities.
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Controversies in Implant Dentistry: Experts debate best practice
A recent NZDA branch event in Auckland brought together experts to debate key topics in implant dentistry, including the timing of placement, implant surface technology, and the clinical evidence supporting various techniques. The session encouraged critical discussion among attending clinicians.
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