In this episode of Spilling the Teath, Alan Mutton is joined by Neil Carmichael, Executive Chair of the Association of Dental Groups, to explore the policy, workforce and structural challenges shaping the future of dentistry.

Drawing on his experience across dentistry, education and public policy, Neil offers a candid perspective on why access to dentistry is under increasing pressure and what meaningful change could look like.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

1. Why workforce shortages are one of the biggest challenges facing dentistry
2. The role international recruitment can play in addressing immediate access issues
3. The importance of team‑based care and valuing every role in practice
4. What contract and funding reform needs to achieve to improve access and sustainability
5. Why dentistry must be better integrated with wider healthcare and data systems
6. How technology and AI can support care delivery
7. The role dental groups and collaboration play in shaping the future of the profession

Whether you work in public, private or mixed models of dentistry, this episode offers an informed and thoughtful look at the policy decisions, structural challenges and opportunities shaping dentistry today.

Subscribe to Spilling the Teath, presented by Henry Schein One, wherever you get your podcasts.