Strong concerns were voiced about “inequalities” in dental care after it was revealed dental practices in Irvine were charging fees. More practises are opting to introduce charges but people who can’t afford them are being left behind.

The reduction in NHS work is particularly affecting adult patients who are being encouraged by their practice to transfer to private plans. Most practices will continue to treat children.

The public dental service has experienced an increase in emergency appointments with additional sessions being implemented in addition to the level of routine care being reduced in order to support emergency appointments. Waiting lists have increased.

From the 26 general dental practitioners listed with the health board who are committed to providing NHS care, four of these practices are accepting new NHS registrations – both adults and children – but have large waiting lists.

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