I want to go to the dentist but I’m not sure how!

Over the past couple of years, you may have seen on the news regarding how difficult it is to get an appointment with a dentist in the UK within the NHS. This is due to combination of things such as: high demand, a shortage of dentists, and funding limitations in the NHS.

So how do you go about getting an NHS dental appointment?

You can use the NHS Find a Dentist service to find local dentists in your area and see if they are taking on new patients. If you are willing to travel a bit and widen your search, you are more likely to find an appointment! Use the Bee Network journey planner to check how long it would take to travel before you commit.

A lot of people pay for their appointments privately, as this is an easier way to get an appointment. However, this will cost more than an NHS appointment, and how much it costs will depend on the practice.

Why is it important to go to the dentist regularly?

It is recommended that you have a check up appointment at a dentist once every 6 months. This is to ensure not only that your teeth are in good condition, but also your gums and general oral health. By going to a dentist, they can pick things up and prevent things such as gum disease, cavities and tooth loss by picking them up sooner for you to then make a lifestyle change to improve this.

General tips for good oral hygiene

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day, for 2 minutes each time, ideally in the morning, and just before you go to bed.
•  Floss daily to remove plaque and food from between your teeth and under the gum line, where a toothbrush can’t reach.
• Being aware of your diet can dramatically affect your oral hygiene. Eating and drinking lots of sugary foods can contribute to tooth decay. If you do consume sugary or acidic food and drinks, try and drink water afterwards to neutralise the acids.
• Replace your toothbrush every three to four months.
• Drink plenty of water to help keep your mouth hydrated and wash away food particles.