The president of the Dental Association has asked the Government to extend its voluntary bonding scheme to dental graduates.
The government's bonding scheme offers student loan write-offs or cash for doctors, nurses and midwives who commit to work for between three and five years in hard-to-staff areas.
Dr Mark Goodhew told the association's regional conference in Wellington that attracting dentists to smaller provincial and rural centres and less popular specialties is also a challenge.
He says dentistry is one of the most expensive courses at university and new graduates frequently head overseas where they can make more money and pay off their loans.
Health Minister, Tony Ryall, says he will consider the request although he cautions resources are limited.
