New figures reveal over 90% of children are registered with a dentist in Scotland

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New figures have revealed that more than 90 percent of children living in Scotland are registered with a dentist.

The statistics show an increase in registration rates, and an amazing difference in the proportion of children from deprived areas who are on a practice list. In 2000, just 52% of children from the poorest areas of the country were registered with a dentist compared to 70% of children from richer backgrounds. Now there is no difference between those from affluent and deprived areas and rates stand at between 91 and 92 percent.

Despite the positive news, it has emerged that both adults and children from deprived areas are less likely to see a dentist, despite the fact they are on a list. Seventy-five percent of adults and 90 percent of children from wealthier areas have seen a dentist in the last 24 months, compared to 64 percent of adults and 81 percent of children from less affluent areas.

The report, which was published on Tuesday 24th January, suggests that there have been major developments in closing the equality gap in Scotland, and more children than ever are registered with a dentist. Almost 5 million people in Scotland are now registered with an NHS dentist, and 72 percent of patients have seen a dentist in the last two years. This equates to an increase of 38 percent compared to figures from 10 years ago.

The statistics have been welcomed, but dental experts are keen to encourage patients to make use of dental services and attend regular appointments.

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