Readers give their views on getting a dentist appointment

Widespread attention has been given recently to the difficulties in accessing NHS dentistry in Wales, with a number of Senedd Members describing it as a ‘crisis’.

However, the full extent of this ‘crisis’ is unknown, with no clear picture of how many people are currently waiting to see an NHS dentist.

According to the Senedd's website, access to dental services in Wales was severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, creating a backlog of patients in need of dental care and treatment.

We asked readers of the Rhyl Journal, North Wales Pioneer and Denbighshire Free Prees, about their experiences.

The survey, which asked individuals if they were having difficulty securing a NHS dental appointment, received numerous responses from frustrated locals.

One respondent, Katrina Lee, shared her experience, stating that she had requested a check-up appointment but was told she would have to wait until next year.

Her humorous response, "Next year lol," highlights the frustration felt by many.

Elaine Castle said: "I have been waiting since June for a filling, I have a hole in my tooth. Appointment is for October."

Wendy Rowles said: "Yes, we a family of five, two adults three children, and we haven't got a dentist. We've been on the waiting list for years and, when you phone the emergency line, you get lectured 'why aren't you with a dentist?' It's like you're a massive inconvenience."

Another commenter, Sean Smith, expressed confusion about the concept of an NHS dentist.

John Worthington shared his own experience, revealing that he had been waiting for six months for a filling at Elwy Dental Practice.

This waiting period indicates a significant backlog in dental appointments in the region.

Rach Parry: "Booked in February got an appointment for August 3rd then got cancelled, now September. Went to A&E waited 8 hours. Still not sorted properly."

Samantha Joanne shared a disheartening story, divulging that she had to travel an hour and 40 minutes to see a dentist due to a three-year waiting list.

Despite waiting for three years, she had not made any progress in moving up the list.

Susan Theresa Roughley expressed the lengths she had to go to in order to secure an emergency dental appointment for her son.

She had to travel from Prestatyn to Wrexham, highlighting the limited availability of local dental care.

The frustration continues with Elaine Castle, who has been waiting for a filling appointment since June.

Her appointment, scheduled for October, demonstrates the lengthy waiting period many patients are enduring.

Pamela Hawksworth said: "I had an appointment for March, postponed until June which was also postponed until October. Just waiting to see if this happens again. I had a tooth out in May last year and the dentist wanted to see me in about 9 months."

The survey also revealed comments from individuals who were fortunate enough to find relief.

Pete Ball expressed gratitude towards Rossett Dental Care for coming "to their rescue."

This suggests that some people will travel outside their county to access a dental practices.

Debbie Hickmott highlighted an issue with her dentist, stating that she now has to rely on experiencing pain before she can receive medical attention for her dental problems, due to changes in her coverage.

Menna Ross, like many others, revealed she has been unable to have a filling replaced since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The lack of access to routine dental care presents potential challenges for maintaining oral health.

The issue of affordability is brought up by Jimmy Lyons, who expressed shock at being quoted £920 for a top set.

The high cost of dental care raises concerns about accessibility and affordability for many residents.

Numerous respondents, such as Rach Parry, shared their frustration at having appointments repeatedly cancelled.

This lack of consistency in dental care can be distressing for patients who require timely treatment.

Jade Lisanne discussed the lack of entitled dental care during her pregnancy and subsequent years.

Martin Krol offered a solution, adding: "Take the new estate at Boddafon fields! 50 odd new houses going up, so around 200 more people for Craig y Don doctors to cope with and dentists! I think as part of these multi millionaire builders plans to develop they should have to provide another doctors surgery/dentist in the area to help the growth of population! Simple solution!"

However, there is a suggestion that people living in some areas might have better access. 

Marie-Claire Marsden said: "My husband had a tooth abcess last week. Phoned our NHS dentist on Monday in Dolgellau, got an appointment the next day, and a follow-up appointment a week later."

The survey responses express a widespread struggle to secure NHS dental appointments in Conwy and Denbighshire.

Many individuals have faced long waiting times, cancellations, or have resorted to private care.

The lack of availability contributes to difficulties in accessing essential dental services, leaving many residents without the care they need.