Number of Dentists Increases by a Third Under SNP

CALL FOR PARENTS TO GET KIDS’ TEETH CHECKED IN THE NEW YEAR

As children across the country tuck into their festive treats, the SNP has revealed figures showing that the number of dentists in Scotland has increased by almost 33 per cent since the SNP took office. Between September 2006 and September this year, Scotland has benefitted from 793 extra dentists - an increase of 32.6%.

These extra dentists have helped to vastly increase the levels of registration with an NHS dentist. In March 2007 before the SNP took office, just 67% of children and 46% of adults were registered with an NHS dentist. The most recent figures show that as of 30th September 2013, 91% of children and 82% of adults were registered. Over 4.4 million people are now registered – an increase of 1.8 million since March 2007.

Commenting SNP MSP Bob Doris, who is also deputy convener of the Scottish Parliament’s Health and Sport committee, said:

"These figures are really something to smile about. In particular it is vitally important that children learn good oral health early as they are much more likely to continue these habits later in life.

"The New Year is the perfect time to register at a dentist and get your teeth checked.

"These figures show that, after years of neglect under previous administrations, that real inroads have been made in ensuring the provision of first-rate dental services for the people of Scotland."