Nicholas Soames MP would like to thank all those dentists who took the time and trouble to complete his recent dentists’ survey. There was an excellent response to the survey, with well over 1/3 of dentists based in Mid Sussex replying.

Nicholas Soames said, “I compiled the survey to gather the views of local dentists on the new NHS dental contract which came into force on the 1st April 2006. Local dentists are clearly unhappy with the new contract as over 90% would either like to see it reviewed or replaced in a year’s time.

“This malcontent is understandable given that an overwhelming number of dentists think the new contract does not fulfil its aims as stated by the Government and most have serious reservations about it; particularly over the way it was introduced and the way in which it restricts the ability of practices to develop. Worryingly, 83% think dental health will worsen as a direct consequence of the contract.”

Nicholas remains deeply sceptical about the value of the new contract; not just to the dental profession, but also to the patient. The results have been passed to the Shadow Minister of State for Health.