For the past six years Simplyhealth has released a dental survey to examine people's attitudes to dental health. This year we surveyed 10,000 working adults and found that cost is continuing to force many people to put off visiting the dentist. Accessibility to dentistry has increased, but people have noticed a decline in the quality of care they receive.
There's also a lack of understanding about the information that dentists can provide, and although we worry about our teeth, many of us are not giving them the care they need.
This presentation gives a brief introduction to dental insurance. It covers various elements such as insurance coverage categories, benefits, precautions and facts. It also taps into dental insurance in India and it’s current status in the country.
Additionally it introduces DENTASHAKTHI dental insurance policy, its unique features, its cost affective schemes, the technology used and the dentists behind the treatments of this insurance policy.
General Dentists No Longer Have To Fear OrthodonticsSix Month Smiles
There are millions of adults who are embarrassed by their smiles, thinking that conventional ortho is the only available option. Six Month Smiles squashed that conventional thinking by engineering a commonsense and pragmatic orthodontic approach that allows GPs to help adult patients.
Simplyhealth dental survey - the hidden impact of poor oral healthSimplyhealthUK
Introduction
Encouragingly, the results of our recent dental survey indicate that a large proportion of British adults are aware of how the health of their mouth can impact on other elements of their health. However, it seems what isn’t so positive is that 20% of British adults do not perform simple tasks such as brushing their teeth twice a day, to help keep their mouth healthy
This presentation gives a brief introduction to dental insurance. It covers various elements such as insurance coverage categories, benefits, precautions and facts. It also taps into dental insurance in India and it’s current status in the country.
Additionally it introduces DENTASHAKTHI dental insurance policy, its unique features, its cost affective schemes, the technology used and the dentists behind the treatments of this insurance policy.
General Dentists No Longer Have To Fear OrthodonticsSix Month Smiles
There are millions of adults who are embarrassed by their smiles, thinking that conventional ortho is the only available option. Six Month Smiles squashed that conventional thinking by engineering a commonsense and pragmatic orthodontic approach that allows GPs to help adult patients.
Simplyhealth dental survey - the hidden impact of poor oral healthSimplyhealthUK
Introduction
Encouragingly, the results of our recent dental survey indicate that a large proportion of British adults are aware of how the health of their mouth can impact on other elements of their health. However, it seems what isn’t so positive is that 20% of British adults do not perform simple tasks such as brushing their teeth twice a day, to help keep their mouth healthy
Annual Dental Survey 2012
Our seventh Annual Dental Survey has examined people's attitudes to dental health. We surveyed 11,785 British adults and found that fewer people are now struggling to find an NHS dentist. However, cost for many is still an issue for many:
• 36% don’t think that visiting the dentist is good value for money
• 54% are worried they won’t be able to afford dental care in the future
A lack of information
We also found that many patients are not given clear information about treatment or dental charges.
• Only 27% have found that during their check-ups their dentist provides them with a written treatment plan that includes charges
• 48% haven’t ever noticed that dental prices are explained by the dentist or clearly displayed in their dental practice.
We also asked whether people are aware of the symptoms and causes of mouth cancer, and whether they have any bad dental habits.
For more information please visit http://www.simplyhealth.co.uk
In this presentation, Dr. H. Ryan Kazemi, board-certified oral surgeon in Bethesda, MD, discusses the steps in digital implant dentistry and how computer-assisted dental implant planning provides optimal precision, safety, and longevity of the treatment.
Part.1 Useful Words & Phrases for Patient Communication!
This presentation includes a series of phrases and wording extremely useful for the daily communication of the dental team with patients. This small guide is the solution to:
- Daily communication problems within dental practice
- Biggest efficiency and patient treatment acceptance
- Create a more upgraded status of clinic and staff through certain manners & clinic code / etiquette
- Give patients a higher quality level of services
- Efficiently communicate quality to patients through the behaviour of your team & wording used
It is consisted of 5 basic steps with a small analysis of each step as well as smart and easy daily tips.
• Step No1: Welcoming Patients
• Step No2: Appointment Booking
• Step No3: Make Patients Feel UNIQUE
• Step No4: Connect
• STEP No5: Decision Appraisal
• Step No6: Difficult Answers – Pricing
• Step No7: Finance
Patient Satisfaction Surveys
By Dr. Anna Maria Yiannikos DDS, MSc, LSO, MBA
5 Common Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures – Why, How Much and For Who? (UK)ToothpickUK
Original Post: http://blog.toothpick.com/cosmetic-dentistry-procedures-infographic/
Source: www.toothpick.com
This infographic will give you an overview of five of the most common cosmetic dentistry treatments; their purpose, how long it can take, and an estimate of costs (UK).
Key points:
- Look out for which dental professionals can perform which treatments, bearing in mind that you can now go straight to the dental hygienist for a teeth cleaning, following new legislation
- Note that teeth whitening can now only be performed by dentists following new legislation, rendering treatments in salons illegal
- NHS coverage is reserved for treatments that stabilise oral health, therefore cosmetic dentistry procedures qualify only in very rare circumstances
- The featured procedures represent our selection of most commonly used in cosmetic dentistry, although other treatment options are available
- All costs and timings are estimates, based on data collected by Toothpick.com – your dentist will advice what you need, and can expect, from your particular treatment plan.
Importantly, cosmetic dentistry procedures are not all about vanity. An attractive and clean smile can have a fundamental impact on confidence, which in turn often contributes to improved outcomes in areas as varied as career and relationships. Poor oral health has also been linked to heart disease.
Studio Smiles NYC is one of the best dental care clinic in New York. Out team of professionals use advanced technology in order to take care of your dental problems. Our services include general dentistry,cosmetic dentistry,dental implants. Schedule your appointment now and get the best services.
Annual Dental Survey 2012
Our seventh Annual Dental Survey has examined people's attitudes to dental health. We surveyed 11,785 British adults and found that fewer people are now struggling to find an NHS dentist. However, cost for many is still an issue for many:
• 36% don’t think that visiting the dentist is good value for money
• 54% are worried they won’t be able to afford dental care in the future
A lack of information
We also found that many patients are not given clear information about treatment or dental charges.
• Only 27% have found that during their check-ups their dentist provides them with a written treatment plan that includes charges
• 48% haven’t ever noticed that dental prices are explained by the dentist or clearly displayed in their dental practice.
We also asked whether people are aware of the symptoms and causes of mouth cancer, and whether they have any bad dental habits.
For more information please visit http://www.simplyhealth.co.uk
In this presentation, Dr. H. Ryan Kazemi, board-certified oral surgeon in Bethesda, MD, discusses the steps in digital implant dentistry and how computer-assisted dental implant planning provides optimal precision, safety, and longevity of the treatment.
Part.1 Useful Words & Phrases for Patient Communication!
This presentation includes a series of phrases and wording extremely useful for the daily communication of the dental team with patients. This small guide is the solution to:
- Daily communication problems within dental practice
- Biggest efficiency and patient treatment acceptance
- Create a more upgraded status of clinic and staff through certain manners & clinic code / etiquette
- Give patients a higher quality level of services
- Efficiently communicate quality to patients through the behaviour of your team & wording used
It is consisted of 5 basic steps with a small analysis of each step as well as smart and easy daily tips.
• Step No1: Welcoming Patients
• Step No2: Appointment Booking
• Step No3: Make Patients Feel UNIQUE
• Step No4: Connect
• STEP No5: Decision Appraisal
• Step No6: Difficult Answers – Pricing
• Step No7: Finance
Patient Satisfaction Surveys
By Dr. Anna Maria Yiannikos DDS, MSc, LSO, MBA
5 Common Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures – Why, How Much and For Who? (UK)ToothpickUK
Original Post: http://blog.toothpick.com/cosmetic-dentistry-procedures-infographic/
Source: www.toothpick.com
This infographic will give you an overview of five of the most common cosmetic dentistry treatments; their purpose, how long it can take, and an estimate of costs (UK).
Key points:
- Look out for which dental professionals can perform which treatments, bearing in mind that you can now go straight to the dental hygienist for a teeth cleaning, following new legislation
- Note that teeth whitening can now only be performed by dentists following new legislation, rendering treatments in salons illegal
- NHS coverage is reserved for treatments that stabilise oral health, therefore cosmetic dentistry procedures qualify only in very rare circumstances
- The featured procedures represent our selection of most commonly used in cosmetic dentistry, although other treatment options are available
- All costs and timings are estimates, based on data collected by Toothpick.com – your dentist will advice what you need, and can expect, from your particular treatment plan.
Importantly, cosmetic dentistry procedures are not all about vanity. An attractive and clean smile can have a fundamental impact on confidence, which in turn often contributes to improved outcomes in areas as varied as career and relationships. Poor oral health has also been linked to heart disease.
Studio Smiles NYC is one of the best dental care clinic in New York. Out team of professionals use advanced technology in order to take care of your dental problems. Our services include general dentistry,cosmetic dentistry,dental implants. Schedule your appointment now and get the best services.
Gainesville Dental Arts is a hometown dental practice located in Gainesville, Virginia, specializing in comprehensive dentistry for the entire family. Our practice places a premium on excellent service, quality care and patient convenience.
this dental administration incorporates routine dental examinations or registration, oral wellbeing guidance, scale and cleaning, extractions, fillings, X-beams, crevice sealants and root channel medicines and looks to address all ebb and flow dental concerns.
Practice News: Herbst Appliances for Patients who “Forget” to Wear Their Twin...Jonathan Alexander Abt
One of the biggest problems with removable functional appliances like Twin Blocks, is that patients may “forget”
to wear them and make no progress at all. To get around this problem, we now offer patients the option of a fixed Herbst appliance instead.
What Are You Willing to Change to Promote Your Patients' Oral Health?Dr Marielle Pariseau
This article, reprinted with the permission of the Ontario Dental Association and Ontario Dentist 2013, offers an introduction to Motivational Interviewing (MI) and its potential for improving the overall process of oral health care for patients and dental staff. Like any new skill, MI takes learning and practise. With training, you can take MI (an evidence-based, patient-centred communication method) and include it in the repertoire of your dental practices and skills so you can more effectively meet your patients’ oral health needs.
Challenges faced by people with Dementia/Alzheimer's Disease - Simplyhealth/Y...SimplyhealthUK
The September results of the Everyday Health Tracker found that 30% of people know someone with Dementia/Alzheimer's disease. The biggest challenges they said people with Dementia/Alzheimer's face are knowledge and understanding of issues, access to care, services to live well at home, access to advice and support and access to diagnosis.
When asked about their future health concerns, 41% of women and 36% of men said they were worried about Dementia/Alzheimer's disease.
Attitudes towards the NHS - Simplyhealth/YouGov Everyday Health trackerSimplyhealthUK
In the second wave of the Everyday Health Tracker 56% of respondents said they don't think that the NHS can do everything across all areas of healthcare. When asked to prioritise 10 selected areas they felt the top five priorities of the NHS should be life threatening conditions, dementia/Alzheimer's care, mental health, chronic conditions and musculoskeletal. They gave less priority to everyday conditions like mobility, counselling/talking therapies, physiotherapy, skin conditions and chiropody. Across all ten areas satisfaction was relatively low - for example only 20% of people are satisfied with dementia/Alzheimer's care, as well as mental health. The area with the highest satisfaction is life threatening conditions at 52% and the lowest area of satisfaction is chiropody at 19%.
The Everyday Health Tracker also looked at what areas of health care people may be prepared to pay for. 69% of people said they'd paid 'some of the cost' or 'all of the cost' for the optician, and 67% for the Dentist. Less were willing to pay for the GP, just 24%.
Managing the health and wellbeing of an increasingly age diverse workforce to safeguard future talent. A 21st Century business challenge
In this white paper Dianah Worman OBE, Public Policy Adviser for Diversity at the CIPD, looks at the key facts and figures surrounding the age diversity of the UK workforce and potential of older workers to fill any skills shortages.
Between 2002 and 2032 the number of people over fifty will almost double from 9 million to 17 million. In 2012 over fifties made up 29% of the working population compared to 25% in 2002.
The UK Commission for Employment and Skills projects that in the next ten years there will be 13.5 million job vacancies but only 7 million people leaving school. Businesses could look to older workers to fill these job vacancies and plug any skills shortages. Naturally there are assumptions and concerns that businesses have around older workers such as health and wellbeing, absence management, and capabilities. This paper addresses the myths and the facts, and examines the different types of older workers.
Simplyhealth Advisory Research Panel Healthy Ageing report 2013SimplyhealthUK
Ageing Brits ignoring health warnings: New report investigates the health and wellbeing of older Britons.
We all know that health problems become more common as we age but when it comes to wellbeing, thousands of Britons are putting their heads in the sand and avoiding GP visits, according to new research published by the Simplyhealth Advisory Research Panel (ShARP). The poll of 1,000 people aged 40 to 75, found that most had noticed a deterioration in their health, with joint problems (59%), weight gain (57%) and low energy (51%) the most commonly reported changes they had noticed with age.
The Spring newsletter for Simplyhealth’s business clients.
Each quarter we publish a newsletter for our business clients which is packed full of information on key issues that will be of interest to anyone responsible for managing healthcare benefits.
In this white paper Patrick Woodman, Head of External Affairs at the Chartered Management Institute, discusses the importance of health in the workplace, not only for employees, but also for the bottom line.
The economy is of course an important factor when it comes to health and wellbeing at work. Managers are working longer hours and many organisations can’t justify giving pay rises when budgets are tight. This all impacts morale, stress levels and sickness absence.
However, Patrick highlights the true business advantages to be gained if employers invest in employee health. By implementing a well thought out health and wellbeing strategy, businesses can benefit from lower staff turnover, reduced sickness absence, and improved productivity and morale.
Patrick details some initiatives that employers can easily adopt, including examining leadership styles, to show how health and wellbeing can truly be good for business.
Simplyhealth back care factsheet for buisnessesSimplyhealthUK
7.6 million working days are lost every year due to work related musculoskeletal disorders.
We can help prevent back pain becoming a problem for your business.
Taxation implications for company paid healthcare for large employersSimplyhealthUK
This communication is directed at commercial customers only and is not aimed at consumers.
Please note that these examples are for illustrative purposes only. They are not intended to constitute tax advice, but are a representation of current legal provisions. For specific advice on how this affects your company, you should speak to your Tax Advisor, or your local HM Revenue and Customs office.
Further information on tax rates and how this affects you can be found at: www.hmrc.gov.uk
Taxation implications for company paid healthcareSimplyhealthUK
The information given is not intended to constitute tax advice, but is a representation of current legal provisions.
For specific advice on how this affects your company, you should speak to your Tax Advisor or your local HM Revenue and Customs office.
This white paper discusses the important roles that culture, leadership and
communication play in developing successful wellbeing strategies in the
workplace.
Professor Cary Cooper, a renowned expert in organisational psychology,
discusses the reasons for implementing wellbeing strategies. Although creating
a motivated, flexible and committed workforce may be the crucial driver
for employers, they should also understand the moral aspect to improving
employees’ wellbeing. Employees will respond negatively to wellbeing initiatives
if they believe they are merely being implemented to get them to work harder.
That is why harnessing the right culture within a workplace is important, so
there is an environment where employee wellbeing can flourish. Leadership
is key to developing this culture and its success relies upon the buy in and
cooperation of all leaders from the board down.
Communication is then vital as engaging with employees about the wellbeing
programme will help to demonstrate that it is ongoing and not just a fad.
Continually surveying employees to seek their views on the programme will
then ensure that it remains relevant and continues to meet their needs.
Simplyhealth's engaging employees through health and wellbeing reportSimplyhealthUK
Over the years, a lot of research has been conducted on the subject of employee engagement. Although health and wellbeing is only one factor in engagement, it is clearly relevant, both in direct terms through reduced absenteeism, and indirectly via supporting enhanced discretionary effort through generating a feeling of being valued. So what does this new research by Simplyhealth say?
Ozempic: Preoperative Management of Patients on GLP-1 Receptor Agonists Saeid Safari
Preoperative Management of Patients on GLP-1 Receptor Agonists like Ozempic and Semiglutide
ASA GUIDELINE
NYSORA Guideline
2 Case Reports of Gastric Ultrasound
Ethanol (CH3CH2OH), or beverage alcohol, is a two-carbon alcohol
that is rapidly distributed in the body and brain. Ethanol alters many
neurochemical systems and has rewarding and addictive properties. It
is the oldest recreational drug and likely contributes to more morbidity,
mortality, and public health costs than all illicit drugs combined. The
5th edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders
(DSM-5) integrates alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence into a single
disorder called alcohol use disorder (AUD), with mild, moderate,
and severe subclassifications (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).
In the DSM-5, all types of substance abuse and dependence have been
combined into a single substance use disorder (SUD) on a continuum
from mild to severe. A diagnosis of AUD requires that at least two of
the 11 DSM-5 behaviors be present within a 12-month period (mild
AUD: 2–3 criteria; moderate AUD: 4–5 criteria; severe AUD: 6–11 criteria).
The four main behavioral effects of AUD are impaired control over
drinking, negative social consequences, risky use, and altered physiological
effects (tolerance, withdrawal). This chapter presents an overview
of the prevalence and harmful consequences of AUD in the U.S.,
the systemic nature of the disease, neurocircuitry and stages of AUD,
comorbidities, fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, genetic risk factors, and
pharmacotherapies for AUD.
Lung Cancer: Artificial Intelligence, Synergetics, Complex System Analysis, S...Oleg Kshivets
RESULTS: Overall life span (LS) was 2252.1±1742.5 days and cumulative 5-year survival (5YS) reached 73.2%, 10 years – 64.8%, 20 years – 42.5%. 513 LCP lived more than 5 years (LS=3124.6±1525.6 days), 148 LCP – more than 10 years (LS=5054.4±1504.1 days).199 LCP died because of LC (LS=562.7±374.5 days). 5YS of LCP after bi/lobectomies was significantly superior in comparison with LCP after pneumonectomies (78.1% vs.63.7%, P=0.00001 by log-rank test). AT significantly improved 5YS (66.3% vs. 34.8%) (P=0.00000 by log-rank test) only for LCP with N1-2. Cox modeling displayed that 5YS of LCP significantly depended on: phase transition (PT) early-invasive LC in terms of synergetics, PT N0—N12, cell ratio factors (ratio between cancer cells- CC and blood cells subpopulations), G1-3, histology, glucose, AT, blood cell circuit, prothrombin index, heparin tolerance, recalcification time (P=0.000-0.038). Neural networks, genetic algorithm selection and bootstrap simulation revealed relationships between 5YS and PT early-invasive LC (rank=1), PT N0—N12 (rank=2), thrombocytes/CC (3), erythrocytes/CC (4), eosinophils/CC (5), healthy cells/CC (6), lymphocytes/CC (7), segmented neutrophils/CC (8), stick neutrophils/CC (9), monocytes/CC (10); leucocytes/CC (11). Correct prediction of 5YS was 100% by neural networks computing (area under ROC curve=1.0; error=0.0).
CONCLUSIONS: 5YS of LCP after radical procedures significantly depended on: 1) PT early-invasive cancer; 2) PT N0--N12; 3) cell ratio factors; 4) blood cell circuit; 5) biochemical factors; 6) hemostasis system; 7) AT; 8) LC characteristics; 9) LC cell dynamics; 10) surgery type: lobectomy/pneumonectomy; 11) anthropometric data. Optimal diagnosis and treatment strategies for LC are: 1) screening and early detection of LC; 2) availability of experienced thoracic surgeons because of complexity of radical procedures; 3) aggressive en block surgery and adequate lymph node dissection for completeness; 4) precise prediction; 5) adjuvant chemoimmunoradiotherapy for LCP with unfavorable prognosis.
Title: Sense of Taste
Presenter: Dr. Faiza, Assistant Professor of Physiology
Qualifications:
MBBS (Best Graduate, AIMC Lahore)
FCPS Physiology
ICMT, CHPE, DHPE (STMU)
MPH (GC University, Faisalabad)
MBA (Virtual University of Pakistan)
Learning Objectives:
Describe the structure and function of taste buds.
Describe the relationship between the taste threshold and taste index of common substances.
Explain the chemical basis and signal transduction of taste perception for each type of primary taste sensation.
Recognize different abnormalities of taste perception and their causes.
Key Topics:
Significance of Taste Sensation:
Differentiation between pleasant and harmful food
Influence on behavior
Selection of food based on metabolic needs
Receptors of Taste:
Taste buds on the tongue
Influence of sense of smell, texture of food, and pain stimulation (e.g., by pepper)
Primary and Secondary Taste Sensations:
Primary taste sensations: Sweet, Sour, Salty, Bitter, Umami
Chemical basis and signal transduction mechanisms for each taste
Taste Threshold and Index:
Taste threshold values for Sweet (sucrose), Salty (NaCl), Sour (HCl), and Bitter (Quinine)
Taste index relationship: Inversely proportional to taste threshold
Taste Blindness:
Inability to taste certain substances, particularly thiourea compounds
Example: Phenylthiocarbamide
Structure and Function of Taste Buds:
Composition: Epithelial cells, Sustentacular/Supporting cells, Taste cells, Basal cells
Features: Taste pores, Taste hairs/microvilli, and Taste nerve fibers
Location of Taste Buds:
Found in papillae of the tongue (Fungiform, Circumvallate, Foliate)
Also present on the palate, tonsillar pillars, epiglottis, and proximal esophagus
Mechanism of Taste Stimulation:
Interaction of taste substances with receptors on microvilli
Signal transduction pathways for Umami, Sweet, Bitter, Sour, and Salty tastes
Taste Sensitivity and Adaptation:
Decrease in sensitivity with age
Rapid adaptation of taste sensation
Role of Saliva in Taste:
Dissolution of tastants to reach receptors
Washing away the stimulus
Taste Preferences and Aversions:
Mechanisms behind taste preference and aversion
Influence of receptors and neural pathways
Impact of Sensory Nerve Damage:
Degeneration of taste buds if the sensory nerve fiber is cut
Abnormalities of Taste Detection:
Conditions: Ageusia, Hypogeusia, Dysgeusia (parageusia)
Causes: Nerve damage, neurological disorders, infections, poor oral hygiene, adverse drug effects, deficiencies, aging, tobacco use, altered neurotransmitter levels
Neurotransmitters and Taste Threshold:
Effects of serotonin (5-HT) and norepinephrine (NE) on taste sensitivity
Supertasters:
25% of the population with heightened sensitivity to taste, especially bitterness
Increased number of fungiform papillae
- Video recording of this lecture in English language: https://youtu.be/lK81BzxMqdo
- Video recording of this lecture in Arabic language: https://youtu.be/Ve4P0COk9OI
- Link to download the book free: https://nephrotube.blogspot.com/p/nephrotube-nephrology-books.html
- Link to NephroTube website: www.NephroTube.com
- Link to NephroTube social media accounts: https://nephrotube.blogspot.com/p/join-nephrotube-on-social-media.html
MANAGEMENT OF ATRIOVENTRICULAR CONDUCTION BLOCK.pdfJim Jacob Roy
Cardiac conduction defects can occur due to various causes.
Atrioventricular conduction blocks ( AV blocks ) are classified into 3 types.
This document describes the acute management of AV block.
Knee anatomy and clinical tests 2024.pdfvimalpl1234
This includes all relevant anatomy and clinical tests compiled from standard textbooks, Campbell,netter etc..It is comprehensive and best suited for orthopaedicians and orthopaedic residents.
Basavarajeeyam is an important text for ayurvedic physician belonging to andhra pradehs. It is a popular compendium in various parts of our country as well as in andhra pradesh. The content of the text was presented in sanskrit and telugu language (Bilingual). One of the most famous book in ayurvedic pharmaceutics and therapeutics. This book contains 25 chapters called as prakaranas. Many rasaoushadis were explained, pioneer of dhatu druti, nadi pareeksha, mutra pareeksha etc. Belongs to the period of 15-16 century. New diseases like upadamsha, phiranga rogas are explained.
2. Contents
How to find an NHS dentist 3
What treatment are you entitled to on the NHS? 3
How to manage your dental costs 3
Making the most of your dental appointments 4
Introduction 5
The revival of accessible NHS dentistry 6
NHS versus private dentistry 7
Is cost still putting people off visiting the dentist? 8
What are the reasons people put off visiting the dentist? 9
How important is dental health? 11
An education gap 12
Is inflation affecting the tooth fairy? 14
About our research 15
About Simplyhealth 15
2
3. How to find an NHS dentist
If you have internet access you can visit www.simplyhealth.co.uk and use our Dentist Locator to find an
NHS or private dentist in your area. All you have to do is enter your postcode and how far you’re able to
travel, and we’ll provide you with details of up to five dentists. We can’t recommend dentists, but can give
you the details of those who have chosen to register with our locator service. You can also visit
www.nhs.uk/Livewell/dentalhealth and enter your postcode to search for NHS dental practices in your
area. Alternatively, when you’re in the area where you want to find a dentist you can text ‘dentist’ to
‘64746’ for free. You’ll then receive a text message with the contact details for NHS dental practices in the
area. You can also call NHS Direct on 0845 4647.
What treatment are you entitled to on the NHS?
You will be able to have all treatment provided under the NHS that your dentist feels is clinically necessary
to maintain your dental health. There are three bands of charges for NHS dental treatment. Some
treatments, such as white fillings in your back teeth, are not available on the NHS and can only be done
privately.
How to manage your dental costs
It’s important to budget for your dental appointments so you do not have to put them off. Check the cost
before you have any treatment, so you don’t have any unexpected charges. The dentist can give you a
treatment plan which will show how much your treatment will cost. You can call 0845 850 1166 or visit
www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk to get advice on how to get help with health costs.
With a health cash plan or dental plan you can claim back money towards the cost of check-ups,
treatment and emergencies, up to an 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.
The total dental plan market in the UK
(covering capitation, dental insurance,
and dental cover from cash plans)
was estimated to be worth £665
million in 2009
Laing & Buisson’s Dentistry UK Market
Report 2011
3
4. Making the most of your dental appointments
Practicing dentist and Simplyhealth’s dental advisor Michael Thomas, explains how to get the most from
your dental appointments.
1
Try to make sure that you arrive in plenty of time so that you can sit down, relax,
read a magazine or have a drink. You’ll feel much better if you’re relaxed when your
appointment is due to start
2
Don’t forget your toothbrush! This means that you can clean your teeth prior to sitting
in the dental chair. Your dentist will be pleased to see a clean row of teeth with fresh
breath
3
If you have any questions regarding your visit, write these down the day before. It’s
natural to be nervous, but don’t let your nerves cause you to forget that burning
question you’ve been meaning to ask since your last visit
4
Don’t be embarrassed about asking about your teeth, gums, breath or anything else
that’s concerning you about your oral health. Your dentist can advise you on how best
to achieve your goals for your dental care
5
Why not ask your dentist what toothbrush and toothpaste are best for your teeth?
There’s a huge range of dental cleaning products available, so instead of guessing
next time you’re out shopping, choose the best product for you!
6
Don’t forget to arrange your next appointment before you leave, so it’s in your diary
and doesn’t get pushed down your list of priorities
4
5. Introduction
It is now five years since the previous Labour Government changed the dental system so that NHS
dentists were commissioned to provide a set number of courses of treatment to patients. This meant that
NHS dentists had to turn patients away once they’d met their set quota.
Now the Coalition Government has outlined plans to reform the system, to incentivise dentists to
concentrate on preventative dentistry rather than just general maintenance. It has stated its ambition
for NHS dentistry in the NHS White Paper, ‘Equity and excellence: Liberating the NHS’ (July 2010). It
says it wants to: ‘introduce a new dentistry contract, with a focus on improving quality, achieving good
dental health and increasing access to NHS dentistry, and an additional focus on the oral health of
schoolchildren.’ Pilots to test the new contract are being carried out this year. The ring fencing of the
funds for dentistry in England will stop by the end of the year, and commissioning will be moved to a new
NHS Commissioning Board by 2012/13.
Changes are ahead, so it seems a good time to take stock of where dentistry in Britain is now, and
whether our attitudes towards oral health have changed. We surveyed 10,000 working adults and the
results show that many people are continuing to put off visiting the dentist, with cost remaining the
biggest preventative factor. Accessibility to dentistry has increased, but people have noticed a decline in
the quality of care they receive. There’s also a lack of understanding about the information that dentists
can provide, and although we worry about our teeth, many of us are not giving them the care they need.
This is our sixth dental survey, and where appropriate we have
referenced year on year trends.
5
6. The revival of accessible NHS dentistry
It is estimated that 58% of primary care dentistry spending was
on NHS treatment in 2009/10 (£3.3 billion), with 42% on private
dentistry (£2.4 billion)
Laing & Buisson’s Dentistry UK Market Report 2011
The latest figures from Laing & Buisson estimate that spending on NHS dentistry outgrew that of the
private sector in 2009/10. Our results show that this could be because people are finding it easier to find
an NHS dentist. The number of people who say they have struggled to find an NHS dentist has dropped
by 10% to 29%. Encouragingly only 7% say they have struggled to find an NHS dentist for their children, a
drop of 17% on last year.
2008 2009 2010 2011
Have you struggled to find an NHS
23% 35% 39% 29%
dentist for you?
Have you struggled to find an
9% 24% 24% 7%
NHS dentist for your children?
The number of people struggling to find an NHS dentist in the South East jumps to 35%, with 9% saying
they have struggled to find an NHS dentist for their children. However, this is still well below the national
levels that we saw in last year’s survey.
6
7. NHS versus private dentistry
We’ve already seen that people are finding it easier to find an NHS dentist and that spending on NHS
dentistry is greater than private dentistry. When asked whether they believed private dentistry offered
better quality than the NHS, 37% said yes. There were four main reasons that were cited for this:
1. Improved treatment
2. More attention to their concerns and questions
3. They don’t feel rushed
4. Greater flexibility of appointments
However, despite 37% saying private dentistry offered better quality, a greater number of people (42%)
said they would prefer to see an NHS dentist. This indicates that cost, rather than quality could be a key
driver in people’s decision to use the NHS. This is backed up the NHS Information Centre Annual Dental
Survey 2009, which found that 63% cited affordability as the main reason for using an NHS dentist.
The Department of Health’s publication
‘NHS Dental Services in England’ (April
2010) says that all treatment that is clinically According to NICE guidelines (2004),
necessary will be provided under the NHS.
the longest interval between dental
Encouragingly 68% said they had never appointments for adults should be
had to wait for dental treatment. However,
there is a difference between NHS and
24 months
private dentists. 18% said they had to wait
for treatment at their NHS dentist, compared
to 5% who had to wait for treatment at their
private dentist.
The fact that access to NHS dentistry has improved could be masking the real story, as our results show
that quality hasn’t improved at the same pace. People may see NHS dentistry as the more affordable
option, but more than half (54%) say they’ve experienced a decline in the quality of treatment they receive.
The days of visiting the dentist every six months are fading away:
• 20% say they are not asked to visit the dentist as much
• 18% say the NHS does not cover as much as it used to
• 17% feel that they do not receive the same level of treatment (such as a scale and polish) as
they used to
Improving quality is something the present Government says it wants to address.
7
8. Is cost still putting people off visiting the dentist?
Although people are finding it easier to find an NHS dentist, which generally remain cheaper than private
dentists, cost is still the major factor that’s preventing many from attending their appointments. 40% say
they’ve put off going to the dentist because they can’t afford it. This is down slightly on last year’s 43%,
but shows that cost is still an issue.
14% say they’ve actually changed their dentist in the past three years because bills were too expensive,
showing that people will vote with their feet if cost gets out of control.
The regional results show that in the South East, South West, North East and Northern Ireland more
people have had to put off visiting the dentist due to cost. Unsurprisingly, people in Scotland and Wales
do not worry about the cost as much, as dental charges are much lower. Charges in Wales have been
frozen at 2006 levels and are Band 1 £12, Band 2 £39 and Band 3 £177. NHS dental patients in
Scotland pay 80% of the NHS dental treatment fee.
Hair Glasses
separate laye
8
9. What are the reasons people put off visiting
the dentist?
East Anglia
London
50
Scotland
Yorkshire and the Humber
40
South West
South East
30
West Midlands
North West
20
Wales
Northern Ireland
10
East Midlands
North East
0
43% of 18-24 year olds say they have put off visiting the dentist because of cost, compared to just over
a third (34%) of over 55s.
Cost is also more of a problem for women, 43% say cost has caused them to put off visiting the dentist,
compared to 35% of men.
The NHS remains considerably cheaper than private dentistry, however not all treatments (such as white
fillings in the back of teeth) are available on the NHS. Dental charges in England increased by 3% on
1 April. This has only added to the financial pressures that people face.
NHS dental prices
Dental Treatment Course up to 31 March 2011 from 1 April 2011
Band 1
£16.50 £17.00
Example: check-up
Band 2
£45.60 £47.00
Example: fillings
Band 3
£198.00 £204.00
Example: dentures and bridge work
9
10. Estimated private dental prices
Private Private
Dental Work Dental Work
Prices Prices
Dental Crown (Gold) £417 Sedated tooth removal £142
Dental Examination £43 Small tooth filling (Non white) £77
Large Tooth Filling (Non white) £101 Tooth Scale and Polish £45
Root canal £376 X-ray £28
Source: whatprice.co.uk
Fortunately the majority of people (64%) have not had a dental bill of more than £150 in the last year.
However, 16% say that they have had a bill of more than £150 and had to pay for it on a credit card.
This shows that many people are not financially prepared for the costs associated with looking after their
oral health. There are many ways that people can budget for their dentist appointments, either through a
dental insurance plan or a health cash plan. It is worrying to see that so many people have had to put off
dentist appointments because of cost, and this could be having a major impact on the nation’s
dental health.
10
11. How important is dental health?
Dental appointments are vital, not just for the general health of our teeth, but also because they uncover
other health issues such as gum disease and even mouth cancer. People do feel dental health is
important, particularly when it comes to their choice of partner, as 66% say they wouldn’t date someone
with bad teeth or bad dental health.
It seems, however that visiting the dentist may never be a popular thing to do. In fact, 41% say they’d
rather have dinner with their in laws or clean the toilet than go to the dentist. This could be why 2% say
they’ve never visited the dentist, a figure that rises to 4% for 18-24 year olds.
However, 59% say they’ve visited their dentist within the last year and 13% say they’ve visited them within
the last 18 months. 16% have visited their dentist between 18 months and five years and 10% say they
have not seen their dentist for over five years.
No matter how frequently individuals visit their dentist it’s good to see nearly three quarters (73%) do
understand that dental appointments are considered as an everyday health need. Yet, this still leaves
more than a quarter (27%) who believe it’s a luxury. There’s also a stark difference between people’s
attitudes as they get older. Younger people place far less importance on their dental health, with almost
a third (32%) of 18-24 year olds saying visiting the dentist is a luxury, not an everyday need. This may be
why only half have seen a dentist in the last year. In contrast 23% of over 55s see the dentist as a luxury,
but 71% have seen the dentist in the last year.
Viewing dentistry as a luxury can be linked to the fact that so many people are struggling to afford their
appointments. Although the majority realise the health need, it remains a luxury that they just cannot
afford.
There’s also a difference between men and women’s attitudes to the dentist. 34% of men say visiting the
dentist is a luxury compared to 23% of women.
People do worry about the impact their dental health can have on other aspects of their life. 58% feel that
their chances of career progression are affected by having good teeth. This becomes more of a concern
as people get older, 70% of over 55s feel their career could be hampered, compared to 63% of 18-24
year olds.
11
12. An education gap
Of course good dental health relies on people taking personal responsibility for their teeth. However, for
people to realise their responsibility they need to be fully informed. We found that many people were
unaware of how they should care for theirs and their children’s teeth.
The NHS says that parents can take their children to the dentist as soon as they are born, to get advice
on how to look after their dental health. However, they should definitely take them when their teeth start
to appear. 42% of parents do not know this, 26% think that they should only take their children once they
start to eat solid foods, and 16% think it should be when they have all their permanent teeth.
Fortunately 53% of children had never had a filling.
However, a worrying 11% of parents say that their child
Children should have all their was under five years old when they had their first filling.
permanent teeth (except A further 18% were under ten years old and 15% were
wisdom teeth) by the age over ten.
of 13 Toothache and dental emergencies are also forcing
parents to make unplanned visits to the dentist. 15%
British Dental Health Foundation
said they’ve had to make one unplanned visit with their
(www.dentalhealth.org 14/04/2011) child in the past five years. 9% had to make two and
7% made over three.
Taking children to the dentist as early as possible will help them get used to the surroundings, and ensure
they become aware of the importance of looking after their teeth. It can also uncover any problems early on
and prevent long term issues. The Coalition Government has said the oral health of schoolchildren will be
a particular focus for its new dental contract. It’s important that parents understand how they can help their
children look after their teeth, so they stay strong and healthy throughout their lives.
The fact that many people are not seeing their dentist as regularly means they do not regard them as
a person to go to for health information. There’s a general lack of understanding about the information
dentists can provide:
• Only 29% would think about consulting the dentist about the dental education of their children
• 34% would speak to them about identifying oral cancer
• 55% would consult them about removing wisdom teeth
• 20% say they wouldn’t ask their dentist about any of the above
12
13. Dentists can provide a wealth of information
about dental health and other health issues Mouth Cancer is diagnosed in
that can be connected to it. For instance gum
disease can increase the risk of long term 5,000 people each year in the UK
health problems such as heart disease, stroke
British Dental Health Foundation
and diabetes. Patients can talk to their dentists
(www.mouthcancer.org 14/04/2011)
about any one of these issues, and just like
a GP they can provide valuable, professional
advice.
It seems many do not fully understand how they should care for our teeth either. The British Dental Health
Foundation says that we should brush our teeth twice a day and for two minutes each time. However,
80% of people are not following the recommended guidelines. The majority of people we surveyed (33%)
said they only brush their teeth for between 31 seconds and one minute. Worst still, 9% said they only
managed between 10 and 30 seconds each time. Only 9% brush their teeth for the full two minutes.
On average how long do you brush your teeth for?
10-30 seconds
31-60 seconds
60-90 seconds
91-120 seconds
121+ seconds
13
14. Is inflation affecting the tooth fairy?
Of course many children associate losing their first teeth with the arrival of the tooth fairy. We asked how
much the tooth fairy was leaving behind in these days of austerity. In 11% of households the tooth fairy
doesn’t visit at all, but where she does 62% say the going rate for each tooth is between £1 and £3.
19% say the tooth fairy leaves anything under 50 pence, and in a fortunate 3% of households she leaves
over £5 for each tooth.
14
15. About our research
The research was conducted by OnePoll using an online fieldwork methodology. OnePoll surveyed
10,000 working adults between 8 March and 14 March 2011. It abides by the Market Research Society
(MRS) code of conduct. Based around principles of data protection legislation and research ethics, the
MRS code has the confidence of the business community, Government and regulators.
About Simplyhealth
We’ve been helping people access affordable healthcare for nearly 140 years. Our range of health cash
plans, dental plans, private medical insurance and self funded health plans help 2 million people look after
their health. 10,000 businesses also choose us as their healthcare provider.
Our Simply Dental Plan covers check-ups, treatment, accidents and emergencies. It’s designed to help
customers manage the cost of routine visits to their dentist and get insurance for the unexpected. The
Simply Cash Plan also includes a dental benefit that provides cash back for check-ups, treatment and
hygienist fees. Our health cash plans help people take personal responsibility for their everyday health.
Simplyhealth launched in 2009 after bringing together HSA, BCWA, LHF, HealthSure and Totally Active.
We believe that our personal customer service sets us apart and we go the extra mile to help. We take
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We follow mutual values and only invest our profits back into the business or give them away to health
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15
16. Contact us
For more information about Simplyhealth, please visit
www.simplyhealth.co.uk
or contact us using the details below:
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