Somerset residents should have no problems findings a dentist on the NHS, according to Somerset Primary Care Trust .
The PCT’s claim comes in response to recent newspaper reports claiming that a third of adults in England are struggling to get their teeth checked by an NHS dentist .
Richard Wood, the PCT’s dental commissioning manager Richard Wood said anyone who wants an NHS dentist should be able to get one in Somerset as there are at least 22 surgeries throughout the region accepting new NHS patients.
He commented: "Failing to get an annual check-up could cost you a lot more than the price of a filling. Conditions like gum disease can lead to strokes and heart disease, and few people realise that dentists are trained to spot the early signs of mouth cancer, which can be a killer."
"Every year we invest more than £22 million in dental services, and this is rising as we work to ensure people living in the furthest parts of the county get easier access to dental care where they live."
The health chief added: "We have NHS dentists ready and waiting to treat you, so my advice is look after your teeth and if they are giving your pain or if you are having trouble finding an NHS dentist call the Somerset NHS Dental Helpline today."
