Deaths from mouth cancer have risen sharply over the last decade, and campaigners warn that declining access to NHS dentists is a key contributing factor. As NHS dentistry continues to struggle, many patients are missing early diagnoses that could save lives.
Figures published by the Oral Health Foundation (ORF) show that more than 3,000 people in England died from mouth cancer in 2021, compared with 2,075 deaths in 2011. This represents a 46% increase in just ten years.
According to the ORF, reduced access to NHS dental care is delaying diagnosis and treatment. As a result, patients are presenting with more advanced disease, which significantly reduces survival rates.
Nigel Carter, Chief Executive of the Oral Health Foundation, has warned that access to NHS dentistry is now “in tatters.” Consequently, he fears many people with mouth cancer are not being diagnosed in time.
This concern is reflected in real-life experiences. For example, Ray Glendenning, a 64-year-old jaw tumour patient, told the BBC that he was forced to seek a private diagnosis after several NHS dentists refused to see him.
Meanwhile, campaign groups including Toothless in England (TIE) and the British Dental Association (BDA) have linked the rise in deaths directly to sustained cuts to NHS dentistry. These concerns are further supported by a report from the Health and Social Care Committee, which concluded that NHS dentistry is in crisis and urgently requires fundamental reform.*
The NHS dental crisis is marked by long waiting times, a shortage of dentists, and limited access to essential oral healthcare. Together, these issues are creating serious risks for patient health.
Below, we examine the main causes and consequences of this growing problem.
One of the primary drivers of the crisis is workforce decline. Many NHS dentists are aged 55 or over and are approaching retirement. At the same time, recruiting and retaining dentists has become increasingly difficult.
In addition, many practitioners are leaving the NHS for private practice. According to the BDA, around 3,000 dentists have moved from NHS to private dentistry in the past two years, further reducing access for NHS patients.
Equally important is the issue of funding. NHS dental care remains chronically underfunded, and the fees paid for NHS treatments are often not financially viable for practices.
As a result, many dentists prioritise private work, where they can cover costs and remain sustainable. Unfortunately, this shift further reduces the availability of NHS appointments.
Furthermore, the NHS dental contract is widely criticised for being overly complex and bureaucratic. Many dentists find it time-consuming and restrictive, which discourages them from offering NHS services altogether.
The impact on patients is severe. Without timely access to dental care, conditions such as tooth decay, gum disease, and oral infections often go untreated. More worryingly, serious conditions like mouth cancer may not be identified early enough to allow effective treatment.
In addition to physical harm, the crisis takes a significant toll on mental health. Persistent dental pain, combined with long waiting times, can lead to anxiety, depression, and a reduced quality of life.
Moreover, patients who cannot access dental care often turn to GPs or hospital emergency departments. This places additional strain on already overstretched NHS services and does not address the underlying dental issue.
Negligent dental treatment can cause significant pain, long-term damage, and emotional distress. Furthermore, changes to your appearance can severely affect confidence and mental wellbeing.
Dentists owe a duty of care to act with reasonable skill and competence. Therefore, if negligent treatment or delayed diagnosis has caused you harm, you may be entitled to compensation.
This compensation can help cover:
Our experienced and compassionate Dental Negligence Solicitors will listen carefully to your experience. Where appropriate, we will provide clear, robust advice and represent you throughout the claims process.
*Source: The Guardian
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