I can't find a dentist - options?

Indie_Kid

I need a dentist. Now, my issues aren't life-threatening. However, they are causing a few problems for me. I've looked on the NHS website and there are no dentists that are taking on new patients. (NHS and private)

What are my options now please?

I live in Plymouth.

coldstreamalways

Have you just looked on the website or have you tried calling any of the practices? You can add your name to the PCT's waiting list as well. Is this the website you looked at?

brook2jack

Phone the practices. Websites are almost always out of date and the NHS ones are not updated regularly , and never give you private availability.Phoning PCT is normally useless unless they run a waiting list.

You may need to go on a waiting list for a NHS practice but there will be a good private practice with availability.Ask friends and family.

Indie_Kid

coldstreamalways wrote: »

Have you just looked on the website or have you tried calling any of the practices? You can add your name to the PCT's waiting list as well. Is this the website you looked at?

No. I went through the NHS website -> http://www.nhs.uk/servicedirectories/Pages/ServiceSearch.aspx

shegirl

Well,if there is pain and something that needs dealing with (broken tooth,abcess or whatever) there is emergency dentist.

There is also a dentist at transit way,which while charges,charges a rather small amount for any check ups or treatment.

I'm sure peninsula dental school have something set up too.

Phone nhs direct or the pct and they will advise you

Apollonia

The contact information for dental treatment from Peninsula Dental School is here:

http://pdsdef.pcmd.ac.uk/

LondonDiva

According to the NHS website http://www.nhs.uk/ there are about 20 dentists available within about 10 or so miles of the PCT's headquarters.

If you need help or info, contact the PALS team. Their job is to look for available dental services for you and give details of arrangements in your area or any waiting lists.

Patient Advice & Liaison Service (PALS)
Local Care Centre
Mount Gould
Plymouth
PL4 7PY
0845 155 8121 or 01752 435204
[EMAIL="pals.pct@plymouth.nhs.uk"]pals.pct@plymouth.nhs.uk[/EMAIL]
http://www.plymouthpct.nhs.uk/haveyoursay/Pages/pals.aspx

It also looks like they've identified some problems because there's information on the site directing patients to a dedicated support team. If you are having difficulty in obtaining NHS dental services in this area please call 0845 155 8070

It's also worth knowing that unlike GPs, you can go to anyNHS dentist in the country, so depending where your neighbouring PCT is or where you work, you could look for an NHS dentist close to work or recommended by friends or relatives.