Urgent Talks on NHS Dental Crisis in Tiverton and Minehead

 MP Rachel Gilmour is set to meet with acting health secretary, Sir Chris Whitty, to tackle the crisis in NHS dental treatment delivery in Tiverton and Minehead. The region currently holds the worst record in England, with only 382 NHS dental treatments per thousand residents, sparking concerns over access and care quality.

The Tiverton and Minehead constituency is experiencing a severe shortage in NHS dental care, as revealed by recent statistics. Only 10 dental practices offer NHS services, and none are accepting new patients. This shortage has worsened since the pandemic, with fewer than 35% of adults in Devon and Somerset visiting a dentist in the last two years. MP Rachel Gilmour has raised issues concerning dentist retention and the uneven distribution of NHS dental contracts. These concerns were voiced during a Public Accounts Committee meeting, where it was revealed that local dentists struggle with accessing necessary NHS contracts and that an increasing number are opting for private practice exclusively.

Rachel Gilmour aims to make Tiverton and Minehead a top priority in discussions with Sir Chris Whitty, highlighting the urgent need for reform in NHS dental services. As the constituency faces what Gilmour describes as a “dental desert,” it is crucial that these talks lead to actionable solutions to enhance dental care access for local residents.

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