6th February 2023 4 Minutes read time

‘The Dental Crisis’ in Salisbury

How we are helping

Have you found yourself struggling to get a dental appointment? Due to the numerous lockdowns as a result of COVID-19, the cost of living crisis and a shortage of NHS dentists, there has been a backlog of appointments at NHS practices. 

Patients have had no choice but to put off going to the dentist, some by five years or more, leading to further problems down the line. In fact, a recent survey has found about two in five (41%) people have experienced difficulty booking an NHS dental appointment.

Although currently a big issue, this is not an uncommon theme. Due to the majority of the public that go to the dentist using the NHS, there is often limited availability when booking an appointment. 

With an inconsistent UK government over the past 18 months, the efforts to bring effective change to NHS dentistry have been thwarted, leaving it still a problem coming into 2023.

At The Barn, we want to help as many people as possible get the dental care they need. There are many misconceptions when it comes to private dental care, especially when it comes to price. We want to show people that although you will pay a little bit more for your dental care by going private, the added benefits you get alongside it are what you are paying for. Here’s just a few:

Prevent developing dental problems in the future

Smiling african american woman reading book at home, relaxing with no tooth pain

Good oral health is crucial to your overall health and well-being. Attending regular dental appointments can help recognise problems early on, meaning they can be treated before they develop into something further (and potentially more uncomfortable).

We feel it is important to have a preventative approach to dentistry. It’s better to keep on top of your dental health rather than leave it until there is a serious, painful problem. Either way, you will need to see the dentist eventually – so it’s better to go on your own terms rather than as a necessity.

Benefit from a relaxed environment

If you’re someone who suffers with dental anxiety, going private may help. With longer appointment times, you’ll have the time to relax. Often a cause of dental anxiety is being in a clinical environment and having a fear of the unknown. The good news is that a lot of private dentists don’t have the same clinical atmosphere as what you may be used to. For example, The Barn offers a unique dental experience, with a relaxed and calm atmosphere and beautiful surroundings.

You are welcome to get in touch with your dental practice before you attend in order to find out more about your treatment. Having an introduction often puts people at ease by getting to know their dentist before their check-up, preparing them for what’s to come.

Get access to a range of cosmetic dentistry

Woman choosing a dental implant looking in the mirror in a modern dental care clinic

There are a lot of treatments that are offered privately that typically aren’t available on the NHS, for example teeth whitening and composite bonding. However, private dentistry will give you access to a wider suite of cosmetic services, so you can get the smile you’ve always wanted whilst also looking after your teeth and gums.

Whether you’ve dreamt of having whiter your teeth, you want to straighten your smile or replace your missing teeth – there’s a cosmetic treatment to suit you.

Finance options available to help spread the cost

You don’t have to let the cost of dental treatment prevent you from getting the smile you want. A lot of private dentists offer a 0% finance option, spreading the cost of your treatment to fit your budget. 

Plus, a lot of private dentists offer the option of a dental membership. Our dental memberships at The Barn help make dentistry more affordable for our patients. With manageable monthly payments, you’ll get access to yearly check-ups, out of hours emergency cover and even 15% off pay as you go treatments.

Having a dental membership helps keep up the habit of having regular check-ups and hygiene treatments without worrying about unexpected bills in the future. Find out more by asking your private dentist about their dental membership options.

Excellent dental care from industry professionals

Having a team of compassionate dental care professionals that focus on outstanding quality of treatment is what you are paying for. Dentists genuinely care about your treatment and want to give you the best treatment possible to get the smile of your dreams.

Also, having a familiar face during your appointment can help patients to relax. You will be guaranteed to be seen by the same dentist which has also been proven to help put patients at ease. 


Although you will be paying more for your dental care, the added benefits are arguably priceless.  If you’d like to find out more information, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

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To book a consultation, please contact us through our website or call us on 01722 414285. Get in touch now and a member of our friendly team will be happy to assist.

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As a very nervous patient that had not visited the dentist in years, I was pleasantly surprised at how much I actually enjoyed my appointment! Everyone was so friendly and calm and made me feel completely at ease. Thank you for restoring my faith!!

Laura

General Treatment, Patient

I had my teeth whitening done here and the results are amazing!!!! Very clean, pretty and professional practice!!! Would recommend to everyone I know! Thanks guys.

Sophie

Cosmetic Treatment, Patient

Lovely surroundings and free parking without having to fight the traffic in town. Wonderful staff who are pleasant and efficient. And Micheal is the most gentle dentist I have ever known – very knowledgeable and explains everything clearly at every stage of the process. What a find.

Hannah

General Treatment, Patient

I’m so impressed with high levels of service and professionalism I receive every time I visit. I’m always greeted with a warm smile and the practice is beautiful. Would recommend to anyone

Laura

Cosmetic Treatment, Patient