‘Visibility must now translate into value'

BADN Presidential Column by Preetee Hylton RDN

Happy New Year! As we step into 2026 and the chill of January, I do so with a steaming cup of tea in hand, ready for the work ahead. Dental nursing has never been more visible in national conversations, yet for many working in primary care, daily realities remain unchanged. My belief is that visibility must now translate into value.

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My advocacy for dental nurses did not begin with my presidency. Before stepping into this role, I campaigned for fair treatment, recognition, and progression for a workforce that underpins patient safety and care delivery across the profession. Over the past year, that work has intensified thanks to open and honest dialogue with BADN representatives, regulators, policymakers, clinicians, educators, and most importantly, dental nurses themselves.

There has indeed been meaningful progress. I warmly acknowledge the efforts of the General Dental Council (GDC) and the Office of the Chief Dental Officer (OCDO) to include dental nurses in workforce discussions and to promote skill mix as part of a sustainable dental system. Our inclusion reflects a growing understanding that the oral health industry functions best collaboratively.

Government decisions on dentistry, particularly regarding access, efficiency and workforce reform, signal recognition that the system must evolve. These developments matter and deserve acknowledgement, yet policy intent alone will not resolve the challenges dental nurses face in primary care.

Many dental nurses, particularly in NHS contract-holding practices, continue to experience low wages, limited progression, unclear employment terms, and in some cases, poor workplace culture. Additional skills and responsibilities are often note reflected in remuneration. Delays in employment contracts, lack of transparency at interviews, and at times, inadequate equipment remain common concerns raised by dental nurses.

The above are not simply employment issues; they directly affect recruitment, retention and continuity of care. When experienced dental nurses leave, patients lose familiarity, teams fragment, and efficiency declines; therefore, practices cannot deliver safe, high-quality care.

Workplaces that invest in dental nurses see improved workflow, higher morale and better patient outcomes.

I am a strong advocate for skill mix; when implemented properly, it benefits patients, practices and professionals alike. Yet the gap between policy and practice persists. Skill mix will not succeed if dental nurses are expected to take on additional responsibilities without the time, training, support and pay to do so safely and effectively. Efficiency is not achieved by dentists doing everything, it is achieved by enabling every team member to operate at the top of their competence. Workplaces that invest in dental nurses see improved workflow, higher morale and better patient outcomes.

I would also like to point out that public understanding of dental nursing requires attention. Many patients still believe that we ‘just suction'. In reality, we are infection control/prevention leads, patient advocates, clinical care coordinators, and essential regulatory safeguards. Educating the public builds trust and shows why valuing and retaining dental nurses is central to safe care.

The final year of my tenure will focus on implementation; the British Association of Dental Nurses will continue to work with regulators, system leaders and employers to ensure that workforce strategies are deliverable in real practice, especially in primary care where pressures are greatest. I remain hopeful because change is possible and the task is to make sure that dental nurses feel the impact of positive change in their working lives.

We are ready to contribute, lead and grow. In this freezing January, as we face another busy year, let us wrap our profession in respect, support and recognition. I wish all dental nurses and the rest of the oral healthcare team a happy and successful 2026. The future of the oral health industry depends on cohesion, insight and resolve, and I am certain that we will all rise to meet the challenges ahead.