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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Politics
Steven Morris and Alfie Packham

Dentist shortage in south-west England leaves patients doing DIY treatments

Dentist at work
The charity Healthwatch has reported that it is almost impossible for new patients to register for an NHS dentist in Somerset. Photograph: Rui Vieira/PA

Many patients in south-west England are being left in dental pain because they are unable to register for NHS care, with some so desperate that they are even resorting to DIY treatment, it has emerged.

The charity Healthwatch in Somerset has reported that it is almost impossible for a new patient to register for an NHS dentist in the county, which is leading to adults and children living in agony, self-treating, or travelling out of the area for help.

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