Lincolnshire dental patient feels ‘abandoned’ after struggling to get an appointment
Dental practices in England have now been open for over three weeks, but many patients are still struggling to get the care they need. A Lincolnshire patient is one of many who feel they have been let down during the lockdown.
The man, who chose not to reveal his name, lost a crown shortly after lockdown measures were introduced and claims that he has been ‘abandoned.’ Having contacted several dental practices since the reopening date in early June was confirmed by the Health Secretary, the patient has been unable to get an appointment anywhere. He has been informed by the majority of practices that his case is not urgent enough and that others with priority needs will be given appointments first.
Although dental clinics in England have been given the green light to reopen, most are offering a skeleton service, with strict appointment limits in place. Many are seeing a maximum of 10 patients per day, with those requiring emergency treatment and vulnerable patients classed as priority cases.
The patient’s local dental practice advised him to call back in a ‘month or two’ and he received similar advice from other clinics in the area. Speaking to the local press, he said that he was embarrassed to be walking around with a missing crown. He is now considering travelling to France to have treatment, but is trying to find a practice closer to home. Talking about his situation, he said that many others would be in the same boat and questioned the impact of leaving so many people without access to the dental services they need.
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