Shortage of NHS Dentists
More and more people have started to complain that they cannot find an NHS dentist to carry out their dental job. Despite new practices opening there are still long waiting lists in some dentists. This is because if a number of reasons. Firstly more people need to be trained, this is a very difficult problem to tackle as it is essential that only people who can fulfil the role competently become a dentist thus the high grade requirements to get on the dentistry undergraduate courses are necessary. The length of the degree can also be a little daunting to some students as well as the average degree can be complete in 3 years where the dentistry takes an average of five years. Unlike some other degrees there are special funding by the NHS to pay off tuition fees.
Other problems in finding NHS dentists are due to the sheer amount of people in one area and also there is the problem of sorting out fees. Those on certain benefits are entitled to reduced or free treatment, however there is little information available about this and when enquiring at the dentist the dentist may refuse treatment until they see proof that you are in receipt of free or reduced NHS treatment. There is area specific NHS line that can be called that will be able to tell you if there are any available NHS places available within dental clinics in your area.
In emergency cases, for instance need a tooth extraction, you can be sent to a NHS practicing clinic to receive the treatment urgently needed however it is then left to the patient to find themselves a permanent dentist. If you are struggling to find a dentist do not lose hope altogether and stop buying your toothpaste and mouthwash as this will only make the problem worse. Contact the NHs lines and consider having a private dentist temporarily until you can find an NHS dentist. You may even notice that the private dentists have more treatments to offer especially cosmetically particularly at dentists in Essex. Whilst NHS reduced dentistry is cheaper, a private dentist is better than no dentist at all.