Shocking research shows homeless pulling out own teeth
A new report into the dental health of the homeless has stated last week that 15% of homeless people have pulled out their own teeth. The British Dental Association (BDA) has responded to say that the government should be investing more in community dental services.
The study was conducted by Groundswell, a homelessness charity, that eventually approached over 260 homeless people in London via interviews and focus groups. They sought to find out why dental health was so lacking in this area and the effect this is having on London’s homeless population.
According to the report, 70% of interviewees lost teeth since becoming homeless. Only 35% had these teeth professionally removed, whilst 17% lost them in fights or assaults. 7% didn’t have any teeth whatsoever.
The government and health commissioners were called on to better resource NHS community dental services most likely to care for vulnerable patients last week by the BDA, who have always advocated more effective care for the homeless.
“This research is stark reminder of how current dental policy is failing vulnerable patients,” said the BDA’s chair of England Community Dental Services, Michael Cranfield.
“A civilized society does not leave homeless people handicapped by oral disease or resorting to pulling out their own teeth. There is no easy solution, but any progress is impossible without adequately resourced mainstream and dedicated services.”
“The failure to invest in community dentistry is hurting patients who can’t always be cared for in traditional settings. It’s hitting the homeless, the housebound, and patients with dementia, learning disabilities and phobias who are all entitled to effective care. This research should force government and health commissioners to reassess their priorities.”
