NHS dentistry was free for the first 3 years: 1948-1951. Then the first charges were introduced for dentures. Over time everything became chargeable (means tested).

It seemed to be accepted - as a compromise between the state and a private medical profession to get the national service established.

I don’t remember much opposition to dentistry charges. There have been regular and growing concerns about lack of coverage and waiting times - but not about the system itself.

Doesn’t the UK state train most UK dentists and don’t dentists from overseas have to have a visa to allow them to practice? Those are two powerful levers if any government wanted to transform the cost and access to dental health.