Economic Problems Blamed for Drop in Patient Numbers
An oral health expert has claimed that the recession is to blame for a decline in patient numbers.
Claire Gouldsmith, an oral health educator from Beaufort Dental Health Centre in Stapenhill near Burton, said that patients are putting off going to the dentist because they cannot afford the cost of treatment. She also added that trying to save money in the short-term by avoiding appointments was likely to increase costs in the long-run, because complex treatments are much more expensive than routine procedures.
Mrs Gouldsmith, who also works as the practice development manager at the centre, said that there had been a noticeable fall in the number of patients attending regular check-ups and this was worrying, as dental health problems can contribute to major illnesses, including heart disease and diabetes. Studies have also shown that poor oral health can increase the risk of strokes and complications during childbirth.
Mrs Gouldsmith said that dentists understand that people are struggling financially but it is worth investing in your oral health because regular check-ups, which only cost a small amount, help to prevent oral health diseases, which can be costly to treat.
Beaufort Dental Health Centre has survived through the difficult economic times but other practices in the area have been forced to close.
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