December 2022
Paying for private dental treatment remains an option. However, as the cost of living crisis deepens, private dental care has become a luxury that many people simply cannot afford. As a result, the ongoing shortage of NHS dentists has forced some patients to risk their health by delaying treatment or, in extreme cases, resorting to DIY dental care.
At the same time, the relentless pressure placed on existing dentists may be contributing to a worrying rise in dental negligence claims.
Rising Dental Negligence Claims in the NHS
According to the British Dental Journal, clinical negligence claims against NHS hospitals for dental errors are increasing. Research shows that:
- Between April 2015 and April 2020, there were 492 dental negligence claims, resulting in £14 million in compensation
- Almost £4 million was paid to NHS patients for delays in dental treatment£2.4 million was awarded to patients who suffered nerve damage following dental procedures
- There were 33 cases where surgeons removed the wrong tooth
These stark figures naturally raise important questions. What has caused this increase in negligence claims? And just as importantly, where have all the dentists gone?
The answer to both questions is closely connected. Unless the UK recruits and retains more dentists, cases of misdiagnosis and negligent dental treatment are likely to continue rising.
Why Is There a Shortage of Dentists in England and Wales?
One of the main reasons for the NHS dental shortage is an ageing workforce. Many NHS dentists are aged 55 or over and are approaching retirement. At the same time, it has become increasingly difficult to attract and retain dentists within the NHS.
Instead, many dentists are moving into private practice. According to the British Dental Association (BDA), around 3,000 dentists have left NHS dentistry for the private sector in the last two years. This shift has significantly reduced access to NHS dental care.
Why Are Dentists Leaving the NHS?
The COVID-19 pandemic worsened existing pressures on NHS dentistry. For long periods, many patients did not attend dental appointments. Consequently, dentists are now treating patients with multiple, complex dental problems involving teeth and gums.
As workloads increase, more dentists are experiencing stress and burnout. In March 2022, reports revealed that:
- 45% of NHS dentists expected to sell their practices within 24 months
- Almost 50% were considering leaving the profession entirely
If these projections continue, fewer dentists will be left to manage growing demand. Inevitably, this increases the risk of delayed diagnoses and negligent treatment.
Importantly, concerns about NHS dentistry existed long before the pandemic. As early as 2008, the BDA warned MPs that NHS dentistry was unfit for purpose and in urgent need of reform. More than a decade later, little has changed, and the situation has worsened.
What Are the Most Common Examples of Dental Negligence?
In 2019, the Dental Defence Union (DDU) identified the most common dental treatments leading to compensation claims:
- Tooth extractions
- Root canal treatments
- Caries and fillings
- Periodontal (gum) disease
- Dental implant treatment
Although the average dentist may face several claims during their career, dental negligence cases are often complex and difficult to prove. For this reason, it is essential to instruct an experienced Dental Negligence Solicitor.
What Should I Do If I Have Received Negligent Dental Treatment?
Negligent dental treatment can cause severe pain, long-term complications, and emotional distress. In addition, damage to your appearance can negatively affect your confidence and mental health.
Dentists owe their patients a duty of care. If your dentist’s negligent acts or omissions have caused you harm, you may be entitled to compensation. This compensation can help cover:
- The cost of private dental treatment to repair the damage
- Medical expenses
- Loss of income if you have needed time off work
Our experienced and compassionate Dental Negligence Solicitors will listen carefully to your experience. If you have a strong case, we will robustly advise and represent you, always acting in your best interests.
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