Quick answers

When did the new Welsh dental contract start?

Paying patients are charged 50% of their treatment package value, capped at £384 per course of treatment. Around half the Welsh population is exempt, including children under 18 and pregnant women.

The reformed General Dental Services contract came into force in Wales on 1 April 2026. It is the first major reform of the dental contract in 20 years and replaces the Unit of Dental Activity system.

How much do NHS dental charges cost in Wales under the new contract?

Are UDAs still used in Wales?

New NHS patients in Wales are allocated through the central Dental Access Portal rather than by the practice, with limited exceptions such as children of existing NHS patients. Private new patient flow remains fully within the practice's control.

No. Wales abolished Units of Dental Activity from 1 April 2026. Treatment is now organised into care packages, with a general fee rate of £150 per hour and capitation payments for recall appointments.

How do practices get new NHS patients under the new contract?

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