According to an article published today on Sky News, it is easier to get tickets to see Taylor Swift in the UK than it is to see an NHS dentist.
The dental practice is a place where smiles are sculpted, not sung about. Yet, here we are, in the peculiar England of 2024, where an NHS dental appointment is further away than a VIP front-row seat at a Taylor Swift concert.
Yes, you read that correctly. According to Ashley Dalton, the Labour MP for West Lancashire, snagging tickets to witness Ms Swift belting out “Love Story” is easier than securing an appointment with your friendly neighbourhood NHS dentist.
Appointments are scarcer than hens’ teeth, and waiting lists are longer than a conga line at the Swifty merch stand. Patients are resorting to DIY dentistry, armed with floss and fortitude, attempting root canals with YouTube tutorials as their guide.
Now, before you picture private dentists twirling moustaches like Bond villains, let us assure you, that we’re not gloating. We’re as concerned about the collapse of NHS dental care. We want everyone to have access to quality dental care.
So, what’s the solution? More NHS dentists say some. More funding, cry others. We at FHDC say, Why not both? And maybe a sprinkle of innovation, a dash of dentist-patient understanding, and a whole lot of commitment to keeping smiles sparkling, NHS or not. The reality is that there is a huge demand for dental care in England, and whilst some will be able to opt for high quality, independent dental care at private practices, this isn’t an option for everyone.
Until then, we’ll keep our doors open and our humour polished. Because, let’s face it, in this dental drama, a little laughter is the best anaesthetic. And who knows, maybe one day, a trip to the dentist will be as easy as singing along to a Taylor Swift tune.
If you are looking for a new dentist in Leeds we are currently accepting new dental patients. If you book online, you can also benefit from our special half-price new patient consultation.
Disclaimer: We do not endorse DIY dentistry. Please consult a qualified dental professional for all your oral care needs.
