40% of Brits can't afford regular trips to the dentist
Nearly 40% of people in the UK admit to skipping routine visits to the dentist as they can't afford to pay the bills, according to healthcare provider Simplyhealth's Annual Dental Survey 2011.
To help make these bills more affordable, Simplyhealth is running an exclusive ‘two months free' offer to all new customers who purchase a Simply Dental Plan online via simplyhealth.co.uk.
James Glover, a Simplyhealth spokesperson comments: "With the rising cost of living and with NHS dental charges in England on the increase, it's important that people are financially prepared for the costs associated with looking after their oral health. Worryingly, not only are individuals skipping appointments but our research also shows that those who attend could be managing their dental bills more effectively. For example, 16% use their credit card to pay for treatment over £150, which could cost them more money in the long term if not paid off quickly. Dental plans and cash plans are a great way of helping individuals and families to spread the cost of visiting the dentist, ensuring dental care is affordable even when finances don't allow.
"As well as routine dental appointments, unexpected or emergency trips to the dentist can often result in costly treatment. With just over 30% of people stating they have had to take their children to one or more emergency appointments in the last five years, budgeting for the unexpected visits is essential."
Cost also influences people's choice of dentist, as 13% have left a dentist in the last three years due to high bills. 22% of people also admitted to leaving their current practitioner after they switched from practicing NHS dentistry to private dentistry. Those between the ages of 25-34 are the most likely, with 28% moving dentists in the last three years.
Michael Thomas, Practicing Dentist and Simplyhealth's Dental Advisor, comments: "Its encouraging to see that nearly 60% of people surveyed have visited the dentist in the last year. Regular trips to the dentist are vitally important, not only to check the health of your teeth and gums but to ensure that your complete oral health is maintained. For instance Simplyhealth's research found that only 34% would think to speak to their dentist about identifying oral cancer. Individuals shouldn't forget to take full advantage of their dental appointments and ask their dentist for advice and guidance on the health of their mouth."
The survey shows that individuals living in Wales and Scotland are less worried about the cost of visiting the dentist with only 31% citing cost as a preventative factor. This is not surprising as dental charges in Wales remain frozen at 2006 levels and NHS dental patients in Scotland only pay 80% of NHS dental treatment fees.
With a Simply Cash Plan or Simply Dental Plan you can claim back money towards the cost of check-ups, treatment and emergencies, from the day you sign up. Our plans entitle you to claim for as many treatments as you want up to your annual limit. You simply pay a monthly premium and once you've attended your appointment you can claim the money back, by completing a claim form and sending off the receipt. For further information, visit simplyhealth.co.uk.
The two months free offer for new customers purchasing a Simply Dental Plan online ends 30 June 2011.