Almost a year’s wait for most to get teeth pulled in Dumfries and Galloway

Patients in Dumfries and Galloway are experiencing significant delays in receiving dental care, with some waiting almost a year for a tooth extraction. The figures, revealed after a Freedom of Information request by Scottish Labour, show a stark increase in waiting times since 2019. Adults in the region are facing a wait of up to 43 weeks, compared to just 10 weeks in 2019/20, while children are waiting up to 42 weeks, compared to nine weeks previously.

South Scotland MSP Colin Smyth expressed outrage at the situation, highlighting the excruciating pain and suffering individuals endure while waiting for essential dental surgery. The region has been designated as an area with poor dental access, with no NHS dentists accepting new patients. Around 36,000 individuals over 18 years old have been left without access to NHS dental care in the past two years.

Health authorities are working to address the crisis, with initiatives such as grant funding to support expanded NHS dental treatment. For example, Moffat Dental Practice has been able to offer 2,000 spaces for new NHS patients, which were quickly filled. Additionally, efforts are being made to provide more places for dentists at the Dumfries Dental Centre.

Despite these steps, the ongoing issue of providing regular access to NHS dental care remains a challenge. Public health officials emphasised the importance of collaborating with dentists to improve access to services and address unmet patient needs. The Scottish Government acknowledged the long waiting times for dental surgery as regrettable and assured support for NHS Boards to reduce waiting times, particularly for those facing the longest delays.

In conclusion, the dental crisis in Dumfries and Galloway underscores the pressing need for improved access to essential healthcare services. While efforts are being made to address the long waiting times, more sustainable solutions are required to ensure that individuals in the region receive timely and quality dental care.