North West London has been identified as the region with the best access to National Health Service (NHS) dentists in England, according to recent data. Figures from the NHS Business Services Authority show that the North West London Integrated Care Board area had 1,427 NHS dentists working in 2023-24, which translates to 67 dentists per 100,000 people. This number has slightly increased from the previous year and reflects a more favorable situation compared to the national average of 42 dentists per 100,000 people in England.
However, while North West London fares better, the situation across the country reveals significant disparities in access to NHS dental care. In contrast, some areas such as Norfolk and Waveney only had 31 dentists per 100,000 population in 2023-24, highlighting the stark regional differences in available dental services.
Worsening Access and Concerns Over NHS Dentistry
The British Dental Association (BDA) has raised alarms about the deteriorating state of NHS dentistry in England, with the service now being described as “effectively ceasing to exist for millions.” Eddie Crouch, the chair of the BDA, emphasized that access to NHS dental care has long been a “postcode lottery,” but the chances of securing an appointment are now more remote than ever. Crouch called on the Government to fulfill its pledge to rebuild NHS dentistry, which includes funding for additional urgent appointments and initiatives like supervised tooth brushing in schools. He stressed that only by implementing such measures can the NHS dentistry service hope to have a sustainable future.
The situation is being compounded by long waiting times and a shortage of available appointments, leaving patients struggling to access the care they need, particularly in more underserved areas.
Rachel Power, chief executive of the Patients Association, also expressed concern, pointing out that NHS dental appointments are out of reach for many patients, further exacerbating the healthcare crisis. She urged the government to take action to address this growing issue and ensure more equitable access to dental care across the country.
In response to the crisis, the Government has recently rolled out 700,000 extra urgent dental appointments in areas with the greatest need, often referred to as “dental deserts.” These are regions where access to NHS dentists has been particularly scarce, and patients have had to wait longer for treatment.
Despite these efforts, the overall shortage of NHS dentists remains a pressing concern, leaving millions without adequate access to essential dental care.
Related topics:
Why Teeth Issues Could Be Waking You Up with a Headache
Walter Reed Dentists Teach Children Good Oral Hygiene
Awareness Camp on Dental Hygiene Held in Khanpur
