Questions to the Mayor of London – answered on 28th June 2022. Alert me about debates like this

 

Caroline Russell Green

Several constituents have written to me to raise the issue of not being able to access NHS dental services, with some drastic home interventions being used in desperation. In light of the prediction from experts of an imminent rise in oral cancer among adults, what work is your office doing with the NHS to improve access to dental services in London?

Sadiq Khan Mayor of London

I share you concern that many Londoners are still finding it difficult to access dental services.

I understand that NHS London has devised a ‘roadmap’ for the recovery of dental services following the pandemic. £50million was made available nationally in February 2022 to fund initiatives to increase access for patients and further funding will be allocated in 22/23.

In London, more than 200 practices signed up to deliver additional services, to provide both weekend and evening clinics, with an emphasis on stabilising patients dental needs rather than just providing urgent care.

Of course, supporting good oral healthcare is key. Water fluoridation reduces tooth decay among children, with greater benefits for those in more deprived areas, reducing inequalities and helping level up oral health. The new Health and Care Bill will make it simpler to expand water fluoridation schemes.

I will raise this issue further with the NHS in London.