This story was first published in digitalhealth.net
NHS dentist access a nationwide issue
New analysis by the BBC has found that over two million adults in England are unable to see an NHS dentist.
The research, based on official NHS data, includes an estimated 1.45 million who have tried and failed to get an NHS appointment in two years with the rest on waiting lists or put off by cost. A further two million assume they cannot get care where they live, suggesting that nearly one in 10 miss out overall.
Dental leaders said the findings showed access was a problem in every region, with British Dental Association leader Dave Cottam claiming there was a 'perfect storm' of underfunding, failed contracts and recruitment problems.
He said: "These access problems are no longer affecting a few 'hotspots', but are now the reality for millions across every English region. The public are entitled to access care, but the system is stacked against them. Those losing out are the patients who need us most. The next government owes it to them to ensure this service has a future."
NHS England said steps were already being taken to tackle the problems - and urged people to use the NHS website to find local dentists that were accepting patients.
Only those on low incomes, children and pregnant women currently get dental treatment for free. Others have to pay. Treatment is split into three payment bands from £22.70 for checks-ups, scale-and-polishes and X-rays through to £269.30 for complex care such as dentures and crowns.
Labour recently announced plans to provide free NHS dental check-ups for everyone in England.
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