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There are many common myths that people have about NHS Dentists,
here are just a few:
You can't get an NHS dentist these days - they've
all gone private.
There are plenty of NHS dentists in Worcestershire with places
for the whole family. Dentists no longer have a 'list' of patients
as such. If the dentist you approach has no capacity to treat you
there are plenty of other dentists who will. To get NHS dental
treatment, just contact a practice providing NHS dentistry and ask
for an NHS appointment.
NHS dentists aren't as good as private
dentists.
Standard training and qualification requirements are the same
whether a dentist is private or NHS. All dentists have to be
properly registered and no extra qualifications are needed to be a
private dentist. The average level of patient satisfaction in
Worcestershire with their NHS dentist exceeds 95% - many practices
have 100% patient satisfaction.
You need to go to the dentist every 6 months for a
check-up.
Your dentist will decide how long before you need to come back
for a check-up, based upon an assessment of your teeth and gums.
For adults, this is any interval between 3 months and 2 years.
My child is too young to go to the
dentist.
Children from 6 months of age onwards should see a dentist. This
establishes good preventative dental care and helps ensure that
children do not become anxious about visiting the dentist.
Worcestershire is developing accredited child-friendly practices
that have special facilities and services for children and their
parents.
I don't need to go to the dentist as I have
dentures.
It is still a good idea to get your mouth checked out regularly.
Your dentist will ensure that your dentures fit and work properly
and can keep a look out for the signs of other problems, including
checking for cancer anywhere in your mouth.
I'm terrified of dentists!
A surprising large number of people have some degree of dental
phobia - often the thought turns out to be worse than actually
having treatment. Dentists are used to treating nervous patients
and reducing their anxiety. For severely phobic patients various
forms of sedation are available, although this is rarely
necessary. If you are anxious ask to speak to a dental nurse or
pratcice manager. Many practices are happy to advise without
committing to treatment.
I cannot access emergency dental services at
weekends so would attend minor inhuries/A&E if I had a
problem.
NO - you should not access these services for dental problems as
they are unable to treat your teeth. Some dentists provide evening
and Saturdaymorning surgeries. Worcestershire has three
Dental Access Centres that are open at weekends at Evesham (01386
502453), Kidderminster (01562 864949) and Worcester (01905
724633) or visit www.getmeadentist.com for
more information on your local emergency dental services in
Worcestershire.
My teeth are fine - I don't see the point in paying
for a check-up.
Your dentist will provide a full oral assessment, including
looking at your gums and mouth, and providing advice on brushing
and flossing. It is important to pick up problems early before they
result in the loss of a tooth or a more serious condition.
For more information about dental myths please visit
NHS Choices.
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