A growing number of
people in Wales may find using private dentistry is not just a good option but also the only one.
This comes after a warning that some NHS dentists are no longer taking on
new patients, according to a survey by the Welsh Liberal Democrats.
It found that only 37 per cent of NHS dental practices in Wales are
accepting new patients.
However, 70 per cent of all dentists in Wales are taking on patients,
showing that private dentistry is much easier to access.
Leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats Kirsty Williams said: "The
worrying truth is that NHS dentistry in Wales is still far from a universal
public service."
The survey also found that missed appointments are another major problem,
leading to thousands of hours of lost surgery time.
One important reason for visiting the dentist is that they can spot early
signs of mouth cancer.
Science communication manager at the Association
for International Cancer Research Dr Lara Bennett said dentists have an
"important role" in diagnosis.
© Adfero Ltd
Private dentistry news: 29 March 2012
