A third of Norfolk residents do not have access to an NHS dentist
NHS Norfolk has launched a new campaign to boost oral health after a report revealed that a third of people in Norfolk do not have access to an NHS dentist.
The aim of the campaign is to let people know what kinds of services are available in Norfolk and encourage patients to register with NHS practices that have available places; the scheme is also aiming to raise awareness of free dental care for children and encourage parents to take their children to a dentist on a regular basis.
Linda Hillman, consultant in public health at NHS Norfolk, said that dental services were a priority for the trust and the campaign was designed to encourage patients to make the most of local services and promote good oral hygiene. The trust has recently invested a large sum of money in dental services and last year the number of patients seen by a dentist increased by 10,000; in the coming year, 7,000 new places will be made available in the region.
Dentists are eager to make sure that parents know that dental care is free for children; parents are advised to take their children for regular check-ups from an early age to try and reduce the risk of decay and gum disease. Dental care is also free for people who receive certain benefits; if you want to find out more about free NHS dental care, you can visit the NHS website or contact your local Primary Care Trust.
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