If you are in need of a dentist, the best way to find a dentist with availability is to:
Telephone: NHS111
Website: Find a Dentist service.
Contact the Devon dental helpline: 03330 063 300
email: [email protected]
The NHS Dentistry contract has for many years been funded to support 50% of the population, and in line with the Dental Reform Programme, access should be targeted to those with the greatest clinical need.
Under the previous Government, dental services in many parts of England have been recovering, however, I appreciate that much more progress needs to be made.
More locally, I am part of the Plymouth City Council Dental Recovery project, who I meet with on a regular basis to monitor progress.
In the South West, NHS Devon is working in partnership with the local NHS commissioning service, local dentists and other integrated care boards to develop the ‘South West Dental Recovery Plan’.
The priorities for the plan include:
- Commissioning additional urgent and emergency dental appointments accessible by calling NHS 111
- Commissioning additional children's dental and orthodontic appointments
- Supervised tooth brushing schemes for children
- Commissioning additional adult dental appointments.
You can find out more here.
FAQs
How do I complain about dental treatment?
Do I have to register for a dentist close to home?
- Dental practices are independent businesses, often providing a combination of NHS and private dentistry. Patients are not registered with a dentist in the same way they are with a General Practitioner (Doctor), and individuals can access services at a dental practice located in any area if the practice is accepting new patients or has availability.
I need urgent dental assistance- who do I call?
- If you think you need urgent dental care, you should contact your usual dentist. Some surgeries offer emergency appointments and will provide care if it’s necessary. If they don’t offer emergency appointments, or you don’t have a regular dentist, you can call NHS 111. They will put you in touch with an urgent dental service. If you need to see a dentist out of hours, call your regular dentist as their voicemail may tell you where you can get treatment. If not, call NHS 111. The Devon Dental helpline also provides advice on how to access dental care in an emergency. Get in touch on 03330 063 300 or email [email protected]
Am I eligible for free dental care?
Full details here. You do not have to pay for NHS dental services if you’re:
- under 18, or under 19 and in full-time education
- pregnant or have had a baby in the last 12 months
- being treated in an NHS hospital and your treatment is carried out by the hospital dentist
- receiving low-income benefits, or you’re under 20 and a dependant of someone receiving low-income benefits.
