Finding it hard to get a dentist appointment?
Dental practices are recovering from backlogs due to strict hygiene measures to minimise the risk of spreading COVID-19 to patients and staff.
The situation is improving but we are hearing that Derbyshire residents without a regular denist are still finding it difficult to get an appointment. Read our steps below on accessing NHS dentistry.
Finding it hard to get a dentist appointment?
- If you have a dentist you usually visit phone them to make an appointment. Appointments will be available according to your individual situation and dental need. Be prepared to wait longer than usual for a routine, non-urgent appointment. You can also take personal steps to maintain healthy teeth. Take care of your teeth and gums – NHS (www.nhs.uk)
- Unlike registering at a GP practice, NHS dental practices are available to everyone to attend a course of treatment regardless of where they live. Visit the NHS Find a Dentist website to search for a dentist in your area. You should also consider widening your search area to where you can travel to. Find a dentist – NHS (www.nhs.uk)
- Is your dental need urgent? Phone or go online to NHS 111 Get medical help – NHS 111 to check your symptoms and see if you need urgent help. You will be advised if you need to visit your hospital emergency department (A&E) or advised of your nearest NHS dentists providing urgent appointments. The number of urgent appointments available each day is limited. When phoning a dental practice, clearly describe your symptoms, any pain or swelling and the impact it is having on your daily living.
What is Healthwatch Stoke-on-Trent doing about this issue?
We regularly monitor the access to NHS dentistry in Stoke-on-Trent sharing our findings with dental commissioners, and also with Healthwatch England on the nationwide dental crisis to influence positive change.
