Peninsula Dental Social Enterprise (PDSE), associated with the University of Plymouth, is transforming a former Plymouth City Council building into a new Dental Education Practice. This initiative aims to train dental students and professionals while addressing the increasing demand for dental care in Plymouth.

The facility, located on New George Street, will feature 14 treatment rooms, x-ray services, and oral surgery units. The ground and first floors will be dedicated to dental treatments, while the second floor will house welfare and technical spaces. PDSE has secured a 20-year lease for the site, previously known as the First Stop Shop, which was operational until December 2024.

Local residents have shared mixed reactions to this development. While some welcome the initiative, others express concerns about accessibility and the broader state of dental care in the UK. One commenter, "Wb10," stated, "This will be great for Plymouth," while "Sloopdog1" criticized the system, calling it a "national disgrace" due to the shortage of NHS dentists.

Other commenters highlighted their struggles in accessing dental care. User "Doct" shared frustration over being removed from their NHS dentist’s list and struggling to find treatment for over nine years. Meanwhile, "Ronnieronaldo12" suggested that newly qualified dentists should be required to work in the NHS for at least three years before entering private practice.

Some residents proposed alternative solutions, such as a health insurance-based model, similar to systems in Europe. However, others remain skeptical, questioning whether the new facility will provide long-term relief for the city's dental crisis.

As the transformation of the building continues, the question remains: will this much-needed Dental Education Practice be enough to address Plymouth’s growing demand for dental services? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.