Answers to parliamentary questions show that between 1997 and 2005 the number of adults registered with an NHS dentist in England decreased by 13 per cent. Bristol South and West Primary Care Trust is typical, with a fall of 12.95%. The situation in Bristol North PCT is considerably worse, showing a fall of 21.34%. The overall figures in South and West mask a worrying fall in children who are registered, which fell by 16.59%.
"Several Bristol Dentists and orthodontists have contacted me to express their concern about the new contract. Some fear being put out of business."
"The failure to increase registrations through this new contract is an indictment of Labour's failure to restore the NHS to what it should be: a universal, comprehensive service that provides ongoing health care to everyone who needs it."