November sees the launch of the 2026 NASDAL Dental Check by One Practice of the Year award. Launched by Chair of NASDAL (National Association of Dental Accountants and Lawyers), Heidi Marshall, the award, now in its eighth year, seeks to recognise a dental practice that has been successfully implementing and supporting the British Society of Paediatric Dentistry (BSPD) Dental Check by One (DCby1) into their practice. The aim of the campaign is to increase the number of children who access dental care aged 0-2 years.

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The award will be presented by CDO England, Jason Wong, at the BDIA Dental Showcase in Docklands ExCeL on Friday 13 March 2026.

The NASDAL DCby1 Practice of the Year award seeks to highlight excellence in the provision of oral care for children with a prevention focus and showcase the opportunity to achieve real business improvement. Particular credit is given to applications from dental practices with evidence supporting their contribution to the overall health of their community. The judging panel takes into consideration creative approaches that may show qualitative and/or quantitative results.

President of the BSPD, Dr Urshla (Oosh) Devalia said: ‘At BSPD we know how important a prevention approach to children's oral health is. If we can get babies into the dentist's chair before they turn one and get them used to caring for their teeth and gums, they should be set on a journey for good oral health for life. Whilst we acknowledge that it can sometimes be challenging to find an NHS dentist, BSPD is inspired by the many creative approaches we see up and down the country to encourage parents and carers to bring infants with them when they come for their own appointment. I am looking forward to reviewing this year's entries and celebrating all the hard work that goes into ensuring our very youngest patients have the best start in life. I want to encourage every practice that has undertaken dental checks for infants to enter.'

To enter the 2026 NASDAL DCby1 award, visit https://nasdal.org.uk/awards/. All entries must be submitted before 5 pm, Friday 6 February 2026. The winning practice will receive £1,000, a trophy, and the right to use the ‘NASDAL Dental Check by One Practice of the Year 2026' title.

Discover more about Dental Check by One (DCby1) at https://dentalcheckbyone.co.uk/.