Dental services in Care Homes inadequate according to dentists

According to the British Dental Association, less than 2% of the annual NHS dental budget is spent on treating patients in care homes. It also claims that oral health care provision is poor, which impacts the ability of residents to eat and exposes them to the possibility of dehydration and malnutrition. And that is why dentists around the UK are calling on the government to properly fund dental services for residents in care homes.
In the Local Dental Committee conference, dentists claimed dental treatments should be given the same priority as general health care in care homes, and dental services for vulnerable older people should become the priority.
Joe Hendron, chair of the Local Dental Committees Annual Conference, said: “Good oral health is important for everyone, regardless of their age or circumstances. Being able to eat, communicate and socialise confidently all depend on maintaining a healthy mouth. Looking after the healthcare needs of vulnerable adults is not simply an issue for care homes, and it shouldn’t be left to chance. For far too long, treating NHS dentistry as an optional extra has robbed residents who could be our relatives, parents and grandparents of the dignity they deserve, with a devastating impact on their health and wellbeing.”