A dental practice has recorded a voicemail message informing patients to discuss the ‘crisis in NHS dentistry’ with their MP.
Atwal and Barot, based in Rugby, Warwickshire, also explains to patients that it is currently operating at capacity.
It has revealed that it is unable to register more patients, on both an NHS and private basis.
The phone message says: ‘This crisis in NHS dentistry will only get worse, so we very strongly suggest you ring your local MP Mark Pawsey… and voice your concerns in the hope he will feed this information back to central government.’
According to a BBC report, Rugby MP Mark Pawsey said he has highlighted the problem with the relevant ministers.
‘I am encouraged that the government has made clear that improving access to NHS dentistry will be one of the key priorities for the health service over the coming months,’ he said.
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Detriment to health
The cost of living crisis has accelerated the crisis in NHS dentistry, with many households struggling to make ends meet.
Many in the profession have spoken out about how now is an especially difficult time for both patients and dental staff.
Dentist Nishma Sharma recently opened up about the realities of dentistry and how a united front is the only answer to the NHS challenges ahead.
‘Putting off cosmetic treatment is one thing, it’s quite another when oral health is at detriment. I had a single mother come in with her kids,’ she said.
‘Her little eight year old had significant amounts of plaque on his teeth. When questioned, his mother explained it’s her fault as they ran out of toothpaste last week and she’d be getting some on Friday when she gets paid. I felt my heart break.
‘I asked my nurse to grab some samples to give to her. And I told her to come to me if she ever runs out again and I’d give her some more. People should never be in a position like this. It’s hygiene poverty and completely unacceptable in a country as wealthy as ours.’
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