My inbox is filled each week with stories from those who are unable to access NHS dentists. The dentistry model is not working - NHS contracts are not being fulfilled, with many dentists closing or just opting to serve private patients.
The problem is multi-faceted. Money allocated to dentistry needs to be unlocked and allocated across Devon to clear the backlog, we need to look at the structures within the dental profession, and we need to encourage recent graduates from Peninsula Dental School to stay in the area.
I raised these points with a Minister during a dental debate last month, and today asked the Minister for Primary Care and Public Health again when he plans to publish the Dental Recovery Plan.
This essential plan can not come soon enough, so I will continue to push for this to ensure South Devon residents can access the services they desperately need.