Kids’ teeth time bomb

The study comes after the NHS revealed tooth decay was the top cause of child hospital admissions.

Britain is a nation reluctant to visit the dentist because of a host of misconceptions surrounding the cost of dental care when many have the right to free treatment.

The survey, carried out for National Smile Month (May 15-June 15), revealed that nearly half (48 per cent) of the 2,000 people polled didn’t realise that under-19s in full time education are exempt too.

They survey also showed more than two in five (43 per cent) respondents had no idea that pregnant women or those who have had a baby in the past 12 months are entitled to free treatment. These misconceptions mean millions are missing out on essential dental care and putting their oral health at risk.

Worryingly, over a quarter (27 per cent) of respondents said they had not visited the dentist in the past two years, saying they either can’t afford it, think waiting lists are too long or don’t believe they can get NHS treatment. Almost one in 10 (nine per cent) never visit the dentist full stop.