We strongly recommend that dentists and dental body corporates read the Regulations and PCA(D)(2026)2 in full.
Prior approval - changes from 1 November 2026
Following the introduction of dental payment reform, there has been an increase in the volume of low clinical risk treatment plans being submitted for prior approval, as they exceed the financial limit. This can result in treatment delays for patients, due to the financial limit of the course of treatment, rather than due to any clinical considerations.
Therefore, from 1 November 2026, they will be removing the current financial threshold for general dentistry, as set out in Schedule 4 of the Regulations, and will replace it with a new prior approval system that focuses on clinical considerations.
Practitioner services are leading the implementation of the new prior approval system.
Further information will be shared closer to implementation and educational materials will be available through Turas in due course.
We will continue to engage with the Scottish Government as the new system is rolled out and will ensure any feedback on the impact of the changes is shared.
Mandatory training (provisional listing) - changes from 31 January 2026
Changes have been made to the Regulations, to enable GDC-registered dentists to list on a provisional basis pending the successful completion of mandatory training. These arrangements came into force on 31 January 2026.
Previously, dentists who wished to provide NHS dental services in Scotland for the first time, or after a break of 12 months or more (subject to some exceptions), had to complete a course of mandatory training and undertake a test of knowledge before they could join a dental list.
Further information
We are developing advice summarising these changes, which will be available to members soon. Extra and Expert members can also contact our advice team for one-to-one expert support.