The percentage of care home residents who never have access to an NHS dentist has quadrupled in just three years, a damning report has revealed.
The Nursing Authority warns a crisis in NHS dentistry means older people are in pain and unable to eat.
Some have ill-fitting dentures, don’t have access to a toothbrush, or are ignored when they ask about a soft diet, says the Care Quality Commission (CQC).
The survey shows that the percentage of residents who have never had access to NHS dental care rose from 6 per cent in 2019 to 25 per cent last year.
And the number of households that say residents have always or almost always been able to do so nearly halved, from 67 percent to 35 percent.
The percentage of care home residents who never have access to an NHS dentist has quadrupled in just three years, a damning report shows (stock photo)
Patient groups last night said the results reflected a wider problem in access to dentistry and were urging the government to address it.
Nursing homes told researchers that not enough dentists can or will come to treat people who may be less mobile.
Mary Cridge, Director of Adult Welfare at the CQC, writes in the foreword to the research report: “There is still a long way to go before people in care homes enjoy consistent care and equal access to NHS dentistry.”
Chris McCann, campaign manager at Healthwatch England, which monitors patients, said: “This report is a powerful reminder that access to NHS dentistry needs immediate attention.
“The Government and NHS England have both taken action in recent months, but fundamental changes are still needed to restore NHS dentistry.”
The Department of Health and NHS England declined to comment on the report.
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Crystal Leahy is an author and health journalist who writes for The Fashion Vibes. With a background in health and wellness, Crystal has a passion for helping people live their best lives through healthy habits and lifestyles.
