Recent experiences accessing a dentist: ‘I was told I was close to not making it’

Tony Harvey, from Pwllheli in Gwynedd, North Wales, told the publication how he “nearly died after developing sepsis from untreated tooth infections”.

He explained, “I repeatedly made dental appointments which were six months in the future, then a couple of weeks beforehand they'd be cancelled.

“A month ago I collapsed and spent eight days in hospital. They found a large abscess under two of my teeth.

“The pain was masked because I take strong painkillers for another medical condition. I was told I was close to not making it.”

Meanwhile, “Janett Thornalley from Alford, Lincolnshire, was told by her dental practice that she had 'lost her NHS status' after not making appointments while self-isolating during the worst of the pandemic.