Almost half of adults residing in England haven't bothered trying to see an NHS dentist over the past two years due to long waits and high fees, survey claims By Shaun Wooller Health Editor Published: 01:26, 12 July 2024 | Updated: 01:27, 12 July 2024 e-mail View comments Almost half of adults did not even bother trying to see an NHS dentist over the past two years as many were deterred by long waits and high fees, an official survey reveals. Just 52.4 per cent of patients responding to the NHS England study last tried to book an appointment during that timeframe - but almost one in four of those people (23.
7 per cent) were unable to get one. Meanwhile, over a quarter - 26.8 per cent - of those who did not attempt to see an NHS dentist said they now go private.
Only slightly fewer - 24.7 per cent - did not think they would get an appointment even if they tried, while 5.6 per cent say the NHS fees for check-ups and treatments are too expensive.
The Nuffield Trust think-tank, which previously warned NHS dentistry 'has gone for good' and must be rationed to stand a chance of surviving, described the latest findings as 'deeply troubling'. Just 52.4 per cent of patients responding to the NHS England study last tried to book an appointment during that timeframe - but almost one in four of those people (23.
7 per cent) were unable to get one (stock image) Meanwhile, over a quarter - 26.8 per cent - of those who did not attempt to see an NHS dentist said they now go private (stock ima.
