How half of dentists turn their backs on NHS patients

Costly: Most dentists offer only private care

More than half of English dentists have closed their doors to NHS patients, a survey reveals.The research found 51 per cent of dentists were only taking on patients if they agreed to go private.In some areas, the situation is so bad that only 15 per cent of dentists are taking on NHS patients, the study by consumer magazine Which? showed.

Liberal Democrat health spokesman Norman Lamb said the figures showed NHS dentistry is "becoming a thing of the past".

"What is most worrying is that many people on low incomes are effectively excluded from dental care," he added.

Researchers from Which? posing as potential patients contacted 466 dentists.The survey showed the worst area for access was the North West, where only 13 per cent of dentists are taking on NHS patients.

(Source: Daily Mail 2007)