The British Dental Association (BDA) has issued a manifesto for the May elections of the Welsh Assembly.
With political parties attempting to stir up support before the voting begins, the association called for whoever is elected in Cardiff to focus on improving the nation's oral health.
"Dentistry here is now at a critical juncture and the new administration will need to address a number of significant challenges," said Stuart Geddes, BDA director for Wales.
The BDA wants the new Assembly Government to tackle oral health inequalities and expand Designed to Smile, a community-based dental care programme for children.
It also expressed concern that a significant number of Welsh dentists may decide to retire due to low morale, which could leave people in some areas without access to emergency dentistry services.
Earlier this month, the BDA warned patients that deferring dental treatment due to economic concerns could lead to greater health problems down the line.
