Brits are missing out on millions of pounds worth of free dental care because parents don’t realise there’s no charge for kids
Brits are missing out on millions of pounds worth of free dental care because parents don’t realise there’s no charge for kids, worrying new figures reveal.
The alarming statics come just one day after the NHS revealed tooth decay is the top cause of child hospital admissions.
As well as parents failing to realise dental care is free for children below the age of 18, a host of further misconceptions surrounding the cost of dental care is affecting our rights to treatment.
Research by dental care provider, mydentist, reveals Brits think the cost of emergency treatment to be five times the actual figure of £20.60 for an NHS urgent care appointment.
The alarming statics come just one day after the NHS revealed tooth decay is the top cause of child hospital admissions.
As well as parents failing to realise dental care is free for children below the age of 18, a host of further misconceptions surrounding the cost of dental care is affecting our rights to treatment.
Research by dental care provider, mydentist, reveals Brits think the cost of emergency treatment to be five times the actual figure of £20.60 for an NHS urgent care appointment.
For fillings, root canal treatment and extractions (removal of teeth),
the survey showed Brits thought they would pay double the true figure
which is £244.30.
The survey also found that more than two in five respondents had no idea that pregnant women or those who have had a baby in the past 12 months are entitled to free treatment.
Nearly half of the 2,000 people polled didn’t realise that under-19s in full time education are exempt too.
These misconceptions mean millions are missing out on essential dental care and putting their oral health at risk.
Worryingly, over a quarter of respondents said they had not visited the dentist in the past two years, saying they either can’t afford it, think waiting lists are too long or don’t believe they can get NHS treatment.
Nearly half of the 2,000 people polled didn’t realise that under-19s in full time education are exempt too.
These misconceptions mean millions are missing out on essential dental care and putting their oral health at risk.
Worryingly, over a quarter of respondents said they had not visited the dentist in the past two years, saying they either can’t afford it, think waiting lists are too long or don’t believe they can get NHS treatment.
For More Information: Emma Munbodh
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