New study highlights difficulties in accessing NHS dental care

English dental patients are struggling to access NHS dentistry services at the moment, according to a new study.

The Healthwatch England research noted that according to the NHS Choices website, just under half of the country's 8,000 dental surgeries are currently registering or willing to take on new NHS patients.

However, a spot check of 300 surgeries carried out by Healthwatch showed the numbers are as low as one in five in some areas, with Yorkshire and Humberside the worst-affected region. This disparity in data is leading to further frustration for patients.

Other issues highlighted by the report include potential drops in service quality or cases of patients being struck off or deregistered without good reason.

Anna Bradley, chair of Healthwatch England, said: "Patients are constantly being fed confusing and inaccurate information about who is and isn't currently offering NHS treatment, and are feeling like they have to opt for costly private treatments."

The British Dental Association said the report is evidence of the damage the current dental contract arrangements in England are creating within the industry.