Dentistry in Taunton and Wellington

That this House notes with concern the findings of a recent dental survey conducted by the hon. Member for Taunton and Wellington, which received over 2,000 responses from constituents; further notes that 71% of adults eligible for free NHS dental treatment in the constituency are unable to access an NHS dentist and that 64% of children are also unable to secure NHS provision; is alarmed that parents have spent on average £470 over the past five years on dental treatment that should have been free, equating to an estimated £4 million across the constituency; recognises that this level of unmet need highlights the growing crisis in NHS dentistry, particularly in so-called dental deserts such as Somerset; and calls on the Government to take urgent action to expand access to NHS dental services, including ensuring adequate provision in Taunton and Wellington.