UK could face a dental health crisis as costs soar, says charity

The data, collected independently, reveals a stark truth: 41 per cent of UK adults cite cost as the primary barrier to seeking dental care. The charity said this represents a worrying trend amidst the cost-of-living crisis.

While much attention has been drawn to NHS dental access issues, the charities' findings shed light on the real obstacles patients face.

A staggering 17 per cent report difficulty finding a local NHS dentist, while 12 per cent encounter challenges booking appointments. However, the escalating costs of dental treatment remain the foremost concern, with significant implications for public health.

Over the past decade, NHS dentistry charges have increased far beyond the rate of inflation, placing an unsustainable burden on patients. During this time, treatment charges have surged by around 50 per cent.