The Scottish government is moving closer to its pledge to provide NHS dentistry to young people aged 18 to 25.
In April, the SNP vowed to abolish all NHS dental care charges if they were re-elected to parliament.
And after a successful election last month, it is now making moves to fulfil this pledge.
In a letter to all NHS dental teams, the government explained how a legislative instrument was given in parliament.
Pledge for change
It sets out the provision of free at the point of use NHS dental care for young adults in Scotland aged 18 to 25 years old.
Signed by Humza Yousaf, the cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care, it reads: ‘You may be aware that this government made an election pledge to abolish all NHS dental charges during the course of this parliament.
‘We also have a 100 days commitment to remove dental charges for young people that are care experienced.
‘In laying this instrument it is the intention of the government to widen the commitment to all young people.’
Well-placed to care
Although it plans for free care for all, the letter explained why young people in Scotland will be eligible first.
‘Our rationale is that the oral health of young people often suffers as they move out of the family home, away from the supervision of parents for the first time.
‘I’m also particularly mindful of the disproportionate economic impact of the pandemic on our young people.’
It added: ‘It is my intention to get NHS dental services back to normal service as quickly as possible. Our commitment as a government is for patients to receive NHS dental care and treatment.
‘It is my intention to ensure that NHS dental services emerge from this pandemic well placed to care for the oral health of the population.’
The full letter can also be read here.
Follow Dentistry.co.uk on Instagram to keep up with all the latest dental news and trends.
