Have your say on the UK's dental crisis

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More info × Group 28 Thank you for subscribing! We have more newsletters Show Me No thanks, close See our Privacy Notice A shocking report has revealed a string of dental nightmares from mothers and grandmothers , underlining the severe impact of the NHS crisis on women. The survey, conducted by the Women's Institute, showed that the lack of access to NHS dentists disproportionately affects women, who are more likely to be economically disadvantaged, have caring responsibilities, and suffer from poor dental health. Have you had issues trying to access dental care in your area? Have your say in our comments section .

The nationwide survey highlighted how women often put their own health on the back burner due to their caregiving responsibilities, sometimes skipping dental care so they can afford private treatment for a family member. The feedback from 1,000 participants revealed that new mums are at a greater risk of losing teeth due to limited access, while elderly women reported having to sell their homes to afford private dental care. Women all over the UK are facing unprecedented difficulties in accessing crucial dental care, with many having to forego essential treatment during pregnancy and struggling to find NHS dentists willing to treat their children.

The Mirror has launched a campaign named Dentists for All , calling for universal dental care access amidst a severe crisis. The Chair of the National Federation of Women's Institutes, Jeryl Stone, expressed concerns over women's suffering across the nation, noting: "Women up and down the country have been left at breaking point by the crisis in dental care. The hundreds of women who took part in our research have shared heart-breaking stories of personal sacrifice, and at the risk of personal health.

" A revealing report from the WI has provided an insight into the extraordinary toll the NHS dental crisis is taking on women. Disturbing narratives have emerged of elongated waits for dental appointments. Illustrating the point, one woman divulged: "When we first moved I tried every dentist within a 20-mile radius.

I am currently on a four-year waiting list for an NHS dentist!" In a comparable plight, another added: "The NHS Dentist left the practice I attend; they advertised for over 18 months with no success for a replacement...

if we want to stay with the practice we have to join Denplan." This report echoed findings from earlier medical studies which highlight the significance of dental healthcare for pregnant women, who are more prone to dental problems due to hormonal shifts leading to increased susceptibility of the gums, possibly resulting in conditions like pregnancy gingivitis. A distraught mother revealed: "I cannot find an NHS dentist within a 20-mile radius of my home for me or my two young children.

During both pregnancies, I've not had access to a dentist. I'm on so many waiting lists for an NHS space that I've lost track. Neither child has seen a dentist and my oldest is four.

" Elderly individuals subsisting on fixed incomes relayed accounts of downsizing their dwellings to manage dental expenses, with one senior shelling out in excess of £6,000 for dental implants. Amid this backdrop, the Women's Institute has commenced its Dental Health Matters campaign, coaxing the government to recognise and alleviate the grave dental health plight that particularly impacts women, attributing the crisis to an inept dental service. They advocate for a reassessment of NHS contracts along with a boost in placements for dental training.

Chair of the British Dental Association, Eddie Crouch remarked: "The crisis in NHS dentistry is having a unique impact on women up and down the country. From pregnancy to menopause, as parents and as carers, access problems often hit women hardest. This service can have a future, but only if ministers are willing to pick up the pace and keep their promises.

Until then, patients - especially women - will continue to pay the price." Have you had issues trying to access dental care in your area? Have your say in our comments section . Story Saved You can find this story in My Bookmarks.

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