Background and objective: This paper was designed to rehearse the evolution of policy for the UK NHS General Dental Service (and related services) since its inception in 1948, culminating in the establishment of a new contract for general dental practitioners in 2006. Methods: Information was abstracted from the literature, historical records, relevant websites and government publications, and collated to form a concise account of the key developments in policy. Results: Policy developments have followed a more or less logical sequence in response to the changing requirements and aspirations of the government, the dental profession and the public. The main events in the chain are presented. Conclusions: The development of the new contract, its rationale and its possible consequences are discussed.