Dentistry - Feedback from patients and practitioners

Healthwatch South Tyneside undertook research into patient experiences of NHS dental services. This included face-to-face sessions with local groups, participation in a region-wide survey by the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care System, a dental practice consultation and calls received from members of the public. In total, they spoke to 30 people during face-to-face events in January 2024, analysed the survey responses of 215 people, spoke to 4 practice managers, and heard from 12 members of the public.

Key observations included: 

• Shortage of NHS dental places for new registrations and long waiting times for routine appointments. This is already problematic for children, people moving into the area, unregistered patients and those who do not pay for NHS treatment. 

• Rather than early intervention, patients can only be seen when there is a problem and require emergency treatment. 

• Emergency appointments are available across the borough when contacting 111. A number of emergency appointments are also held within individual dental surgeries not registered with the 111 service. However, there is not enough to meet demand.

• There are long waiting times, in many cases years, for new registrations and non-emergency treatments such as routine check-ups.

• DNAs (Did Not Attend) are a regular occurrence with appointments being wasted.

• Many patients being advised to pay privately to alleviate waiting times for treatment. 

The report contains recommendations.