UK dentistry: a timeline of events 1920-2020-Part 3: 1993-2020

This is the third and final part of a series detailing significant developments in the delivery of dentistry in the UK between 1920 and 2020 covering the period that saw increased scrutiny of the general dental services following the significant overspend that accompanied contract reform to the impact of the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Vocational training required for new graduates entering the general dental services and clinical audit and peer review became part of the terms of service. Continuing professional development mandatory for all dentists and extended to dental care professionals following the introduction of statutory registration.New, deeply unpopular, general dental services contract introduced into England and Wales, ending patient registration and reducing 400+ fees to three treatment bands with expenditure cash limited replacing a demand-led service - the first primary care service to adopt this approach to controlling expenditure and rationing care.Dental therapists permitted to work in general practice and duties, along with hygienists, extended and direct patient access introduced. Dental care professionals permitted to carry on the business of dentistry and restriction on the number of corporate bodies lifted.