NHS dentist shortages to be tackled with cash incentive
The government has also announced higher payments for dentists who take on new patients and teeth-cleaning in schools as part of a plan to expand levels of dental care.
The plans have been criticised as not going far enough by dental leaders and Labour.
The British Dentistry Association said this is "rearranging the deckchairs".
The £20,000 "golden hello" payment will be available to up to 240 dentists, about 1% of the workforce, with the aim of getting more people to work for three years in the so-called dental deserts where there is the poorest access to NHS care.
And the government hopes increasing the standard payments all dentists get for carrying out NHS work will tempt more away from the more lucrative private market.
Dentists have argued the money they are paid by the government to provide NHS dental care is not enough to cover their costs, especially in cases where people need complex procedures.
'Burning issue'
Health Secretary Victoria Atkins told the BBC the government has listened to the profession by increasing the standard payments for NHS work.
"I know how hard it can be to secure an NHS dental appointment."
The government is aiming for 1.5 million more treatments to be given over the next 12 months because of the plans.
British Dental Association (BDA) leader Shawn Charlwood said: "This 'recovery plan' is not worthy of the title. It won't halt the exodus from the workforce or offer hope to millions struggling to access care.
"Nothing here makes this service fit for the future. The crisis will remain a burning issue in communities across this country until we get real change."
Read more here - https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-68171171
