James Evans, MS for Brecon & Radnorshire and Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care, confirmed he will raise concerns about the NHS dentistry crisis in Wales at the Senedd next week. This comes after the recent announcement that the last NHS dental practice in Crickhowell will close.
MyDentist revealed that its practice on Beaufort Street will shut down on June 30. The closure is due to the end of the lease and ongoing difficulties in recruiting NHS dentists, caused by a nationwide shortage.
Mr. Evans said, “I am gutted to hear that myDentist in Crickhowell is closing. This is another blow to local residents and to NHS dental services in this area.”
A spokesperson for MyDentist added, “It has been an honour to provide dental care to our wonderful patients in Crickhowell. We thank our dedicated practice team for their hard work and commitment to patient care. We have informed patients about alternative options for continuing their dental care after the closure.”
Mr. Evans expressed his ongoing frustration with the Welsh Government’s handling of NHS dental reforms, which are currently open for public consultation. He urged people in rural Wales to take part in the consultation and share their experiences.
He said, “Welsh Labour have talked about dental reforms for years, but the reality is that the situation is worsening day by day.”
The Welsh Government plans to introduce new dental reforms in April 2026. However, Mr. Evans warned that real improvements will only happen if dental professionals support the changes.
He also pointed to recent criticism from the British Dental Association (BDA). The BDA called the government’s approach “spin” and “half-truths,” warning that NHS dental services may “fall off a cliff” if ongoing problems are not fixed.
“I will raise this issue again in the Senedd when we return next week,” Mr. Evans said.
