New findings show that access to NHS dentistry has improved at the expense of quality. More than half (54%) of the UK population has experienced change in dental services in the past four years, with reduction in quality of treatment (17%) and lower levels of NHS cover (18%) cited as the main reasons. Over a quarter of the population now view visits to the dentist as a ‘luxury’ and 2% have never visited the dentist at all. Only half of 18-24 year olds have been to the dentist in the past year compared to over two thirds of 45-54 year olds.

Cost is still the major factor that’s preventing many from attending their appointments. 40% say they’ve put off going to the dentist because they can’t afford it. Moreover when people do go to the dentist they are not using consultations to their full potential. Only a third of people believe that dentists can identify oral cancer and only 55% of people would consider asking their dentist about the removal of wisdom teeth. With 4% of 18-24 year olds having never been to the dentist, it is no surprise that nearly one third of children were under ten when they had their first filling and 11% were under five years old.

There’s also a contrast in people’s attitudes to dental health. On one hand two thirds say they wouldn’t date someone with bad teeth and more than 60% believe good teeth can influence career progression. Yet, 41% say they’d prefer to have dinner with the in laws than get their teeth checked. Almost 50% would rather take out the rubbish and 41% would prefer to clean the toilet!