Smiles of the future: Parent and Carer Perspectives on Children's Oral Health
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Healthwatch Hertfordshire was commissioned by the local ICB to engage with parents and carers about their views and experiences of dental care for their children. 853 parents and carers shared the challenges they face in accessing NHS dental care and the information, advice and education that would support them in taking better care of their children’s oral health.
4 in 5 children visit a dental practice, however 1 in 5 do not. Positively, the majority of children visit a dental practice, and many have good experiences. However, we found that 9% do not attend at all and 12% receive private care. This was because they cannot find an NHS dentist accepting new patients or are on a waiting list which may take several months or years.
More than 1 in 3 parents and carers experienced barriers in accessing dental care for their children. Common barriers included time constraints, financial challenges, limited appointment availability, and the environment of dental practices.
Most of the carers and parents whose children have additional needs (30% of the people we spoke with) do not receive the reasonable adjustments and accommodations they require. They suggested that the provision of specialist dental care needs to be improved and that dental practices need to have a better understanding of treating children with additional needs.
4 out of 5 parents and carers wanted more oral health support to be provided within schools. They also called for more information, education and resources centred on preventative care.
More than 1 in 3 parents and carers have felt stressed or worried about their children’s oral health in the last year. This is in addition to the 1 in 4 parents and carers who also said they are concerned about their children’s teeth and gums.
Over 40% said that rising costs have affected their ability to purchase healthy foods. They felt this was having a negative impact on their children’s oral health.
Many NHS dental practices were kind, caring and understanding. There are examples of good practice across the county as well as areas for improvement, including: better communication, offering continuity of care and making dental practices more child-friendly.