Truro and Falmouth MP launches new dental survey
The MP for Truro and Falmouth has launched a new dental survey to find out more about local provision and gain insight into peoples’ experiences of NHS dentistry.
Cherilyn Mackory said that she is aware that it is hard to find a dentist in Cornwall but admitted that the scale of the problem is unclear due to the fact that the NHS doesn’t provide statistics related to how many people need treatment.
Restricted access to NHS dentistry is not a new issue in the county, but it is becoming increasingly problematic. Ms Mackory said that she wanted to learn more about NHS dentistry in the area so that she can “tackle” it and present up-to-date data to the NHS.
The survey is designed to provide a clearer picture of how many people in Truro and Falmouth are looking for an NHS dentist or waiting for NHS dental treatment.
The survey, which is available online and via hard copy, will run until March 1st. Ms Mackory then plans to share her findings with the relevant government ministers and the NHS. She is appealing to local people to get involved and complete the survey.
The South West has long struggled with a shortage of dentists and access issues have been exacerbated by the pandemic. Recently, the government announced extra funding of £50 million to increase the number of appointments by paying dentists more to work outside of core hours. The South West region will receive £4.7 million.
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