A summary of the BBC investigation into NHS dental care, supported by the British Dental Association, was published this week. It reports a significant 10 per cent drop in the number of NHS dentists over three years. Yet dental decay is still the most common reason for children between the age of 5 and 9 being admitted into hospital.

Aware of how difficult access to dental care is these days, a Glastonbury dental practice, SpaDental, is hosting special Children's Days to help children in the vulnerable under-12 age group access affordable dental examinations. While dental treatment for children is free to families of children under 18 as it is sponsored by the NHS, parents are considering the long-term benefits of switching to private dentists because they cannot book appointments.

Only dental practices with an NHS contract provide NHS dental care. Some practices deliver both private and NHS treatments, but many have had to cut back their NHS services to remain viable.

As a 'private patient only' practice, SpaDental Glastonbury is offering a 44 per cent discount on children's examinations. Their next Children's Day is on Monday, September 5. A parent or guardian may book an appointment for only £15. Places are limited.

NHS England recently announced some changes to the way NHS care is funded, but discussions are still 'ongoing'. Meanwhile parents are left wondering when their children will be able to resume those important, regular dental checks.