Analysis of the latest ONS ‘Experiences of NHS healthcare services in England’ survey1 reveals a worrying gap in dental care in certain regions and among specific demographic groups.
The research from Broadstone, a leading independent consultancy, shows that 5.9% of the English working population – those aged 16-64 – who have an NHS dentist or go to a dental hospital, had their last dental appointment more than two years ago.
When extrapolated against the latest ONS population estimates2, that’s equivalent to approximately 1.2 million people, despite the wider health risks associated with poor oral health and the importance of regular check-ups among this working cohort.
The survey also revealed that 12.0% of all English residents – or 5.7 million people – claim that they do not have a dentist, among which approximately 4.9 million people are of working age – 16-64 years old.
Interestingly, 81.2% of people without a dentist but who tried to make an NHS appointment in the last 28 days, were unsuccessful in doing so. In response to this, when asked what their follow up action was, the majority (75.6%) said ‘nothing’.
The top three regions with the lowest proportion of people with a dentist included the South West (16.9%), North East & Yorkshire (13.7%) and East of England (11.6%).
The top five areas in England with the lowest coverage included; Cornwall and Isles of Scilly (23.3%), Bristol, North Somerset and Gloucestershire (20.7%), Devon (19.7%), Somerset (17.7%) and Northamptonshire (17.6%)
Urban city towns had the highest proportion of people without a dentist at 13.1%. Rural towns (11.7%), urban major cities (11.2%) and rural villages (10.5%) had slightly less people without a dentist.
Emily Jones, Client Consulting Director at Broadstone, said: “These findings shine a light on a growing and concerning issue around access to dentistry in England. Oral health is a critical foundation of overall wellbeing, and untreated dental issues can lead to more severe health risks, from infections and sleep disruption to cardiovascular problems.
“It’s worrying to see that millions of people are going more than two years before seeing their dentist, potentially missing out on important oral cancer or gum disease checks. The data also demonstrates the significant numbers of people who don’t have a dentist and are struggling to access an appointment when they try.
“Given this dental care gap, particularly among the working age population, many employers are now recognising the importance of including dental benefits as part of their healthcare offerings, supporting their employees wellbeing and productivity.
“There are few signs so far of the government making progress in improving access to NHS dentistry.
“It’s important therefore that, as employers adjust to higher national insurance and minimum wage costs, they don’t take their eye ‘off the ball’ when it comes to the provision of healthcare benefits that improve access to care, promote overall health for the workforce, boost productivity and help reduce the strain on NHS services.”
Highest proportion of individuals who do not have a dentist by region:
- South West (16.9%)
- North East & Yorkshire (13.7%)
- East of England (11.6%)
- North West (11.4%)
- Midlands (11.4%)
- South East (10.8%)
- London (10.1%)
Sources
1 – ONS, Experiences of NHS healthcare services in England
2 – ONS, Estimates of the population for England
