New data show nearly 40% of children do not see a dentist per year

The HSCIC today published, for the first time, data on the number of children visiting a dentist every 12 months. This is an important step for improving public health, following recommendations made by the Faculty earlier this year.

In response to the NHS dental statistics for England third quarterly report released today by the HSCIC, Professor Nigel Hunt, Dean, Faculty of Dental Surgery said:

“This data shows nearly 40% of children are still not visiting a dentist every 12 months, as recommended by NICE guidance. This suggests there has been little improvement in the number of children accessing a dentist over the last decade.  

“One-third of five year olds suffer from tooth decay in England with some being hospitalised as a result. Visits to the dentist are important for encouraging good oral health, providing rapid diagnosis and treatment to prevent a child from being hospitalised due to tooth decay.”

View the full HSCIC report here: http://www.hscic.gov.uk/catalogue/PUB17555