NHS dentistry is at breaking point – only radical action may be enough to fix it

Abstract

Almost 90% of NHS dental practices in the UK are no longer accepting new adult patients, according to a report by the BBC. Only one in five practices are willing to accept children as new patients. Reports also show that between 2019 and 2021, only around 36% of UK adults were able to get an appointment with an NHS dentist. Those fortunate enough to get an appointment often have to wait months for routine dental care. The lack of access to emergency care is even worse, with many patients taking matters into their own hands and resorting to DIY dentistry. While these figures are shocking, they come as no surprise to many within the profession. For years, the British Dental Association has warned the government that NHS dentistry was hanging by a thread. And without urgent action, the situation will only continue to deteriorate.