An update from Stephen Kinnock MP at BDIA Dental Showcase

Amongst the bustling aisles of BDIA Dental Showcase’s exhibition hall, Stephen Kinnock MP delivered a comprehensive Keynote Address in the Dental Update Theatre, which was well received by delegates.

Kinnock began by paying tribute to the hard work of dentists, thanking them for their service, and acknowledging the struggles of professionals and patients alike as he highlighted that “in 2024, only one in three secured an NHS dentist”. He noted that a particular focus on children’s oral health was necessary, and that there would be “no more empty promises”, recognising that the whole dental team has been impacted by the existence of dental deserts. As such, he commented that he is “committed to contract reform”.

His highly anticipated session touched on the revision of the UDA system in the future, and that a 10-year long-term health workforce plan will be revealed this summer. On this, Kinnock noted that he wants to secure the best possible funding for the profession in order to deliver the best results for patients.

Neil Carmichael was in attendance and commented “The session was effective, and it was reassuring to hear Stephen Kinnock acknowledge the need for workforce planning and realistic reform of dentistry, including the UDA system”.

The session finished with a Q&A in which he discussed filling the gaps post-COVID, a move from hospital to community, cure to prevention, and analogue to digital.

BDIA Dental Showcase 

13th-14th March 2026

ExCeL London

Find out more at www.dentalshowcase.com