Dental Patients Misled Over NHS Treatment

A watchdog warns that patients are misled by dentists about NHS entitlements, leading many to pay for private treatments unnecessarily. The FTC highlights issues in the UK dentistry market, including pressure to buy payment plans and restricted access to non-dentist professionals. An investigation reveals some dentists refuse NHS procedures, though the British Dental Association claims most follow rules. Despite issues, many patients are satisfied with NHS dentists.

What issue does the watchdog highlight regarding NHS dental treatments?

• NHS treatments are always cheaper than private ones.

• Patients are being misled about their entitlements.

• Dentists are providing free treatments.

• All dentists follow NHS guidelines.

What is one of the main concerns about the UK dentistry market?

• Patients have too many NHS dentists to choose from.

• Hygienists can be accessed directly without a dentist.

• All dental treatments are free of charge.

• There is pressure to buy dental payment plans.

What restriction is mentioned regarding access to dental professionals?

• Hygienists can only be accessed through a dentist.

• All dental professionals are available without restrictions.

• Patients can directly visit hygienists.

• Patients can choose any dental professional freely.

What did the investigation find about some dentists' practices?

• Some dentists refuse time-consuming NHS procedures.

• All dentists perform NHS procedures.

• Every dentist follows the NHS rules strictly.

• Dentists offer all treatments for free.

What is the British Dental Association's stance on NHS treatments?

• Only private treatments are recommended.

• NHS treatments are optional for dentists.

• Patients should receive full NHS treatment if necessary.

• Most dentists do not follow NHS rules.