27,000 children on waiting lists for specialised dental care

The figures also show that children in some areas are waiting an average of over a year and a half after being referred for specialised dental treatment on the NHS.

The data was released by the NHS Business Services Authority following a Freedom of Information request by the Liberal Democrats and is taken from an ongoing survey of community dentist providers. It reveals how specialist NHS dental services are struggling due to staff shortages and pressures on hospital capacity.

Community Dental Services provide treatments to a range of patients that need specialised care because they have specific needs. This can include children with severe untreated tooth decay, those with physical or learning disabilities or who need specific treatment for complex dental problems.