Persistent ‘Dental Deserts’ Risk Leaving Rural Communities Behind

New analysis from the Local Government Association (LGA) highlights a continuing crisis in NHS dental provision, with so-called ‘dental deserts’ leaving many communities – particularly rural and deprived areas – struggling to access care.

Using NHS England data, the LGA found that no local authority area in England has more than one NHS dentist per 1,000 residents. Rural areas in particular are more likely to have fewer practices, creating significant barriers to treatment.

The analysis also reveals striking inequalities:

• Communities with the poorest health outcomes are less likely to find an NHS dentist locally than those with the best outcomes.
• Middlesbrough, one of the most deprived areas in England, has just 10 NHS dental practices per 100,000 people, compared to 28 per 100,000 in affluent Richmond upon Thames.
• Areas with high levels of child dental decay do not necessarily have better NHS provision than areas with lower levels.

The LGA warns that this unequal distribution is widening health inequalities, and is calling on Government to introduce targeted measures to improve access where need is greatest.

Cllr Dr Wendy Taylor, Chair of the LGA Health and Wellbeing Committee, said:

"There is still a shortage of affordable dental treatment in all communities across the country, particularly rural and more deprived areas. Poor dental health can significantly impact overall health outcomes, including cardiovascular disease. Equal access to NHS dental services is vital for every community".

British Dental Association Chair, Eddie Crouch, added:

"For millions, NHS dentistry has effectively ceased to exist, especially among those who need care the most. Government can save this service, but that will require real ambition underpinned by sustainable funding".

The LGA welcomed recent steps by Government to expand provision and invest in community dental services but argues that a fundamental review of the NHS dental contract is essential to secure long-term, equitable care.

Rural health inequalities and access to care will be a key focus of our upcoming session on Rural Health and Care at the upcoming National Rural Conference. Find out more and book your place here.