What are Urgent Dental Access Centres (UDACs)?

UDACs are facilities established to provide immediate treatment for dental emergencies such as broken teeth, abscesses, and loose fillings.

How many patients have been treated by UDACs in North East and North Cumbria?

The 23 UDACs across North East and North Cumbria have collectively served over 41,000 patients since their pilot launch in 2024.

When will the government's NHS dental contract reforms take effect?

The government has announced upcoming reforms to the NHS dental contract, with changes expected to come into effect from April.

Home / Health / NHS Dental Crisis: Urgent Care Centers Offer Hope

NHS Dental Crisis: Urgent Care Centers Offer Hope

1 Feb

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Summary

Urgent dental centers provide fast treatment for acute issues.
23 centers across North East and North Cumbria serve over 41,000 patients.
Government plans major NHS dental contract modernization soon.

NHS Dental Crisis: Urgent Care Centers Offer Hope

Accessing routine NHS dental care has become a significant challenge for many, prompting health officials to develop alternative solutions for those in severe pain. In the North East and North Cumbria region, Urgent Dental Access Centres (UDACs) have been established to provide immediate treatment for dental emergencies.

These UDACs, numbering 23 across the region, have collectively served over 41,000 patients since their pilot launch in 2024. They are specifically designed for urgent cases such as broken teeth, abscesses, and loose fillings. Patients needing immediate attention can access these centers, regardless of their regular dental registration status.

The North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB) implemented a Dental Access Recovery Plan, investing £9.5m to create this network. This initiative aims to provide nearly 109,000 urgent dental appointments annually, offering a vital service for individuals experiencing acute dental distress.