TODAY we report that people across the district are still struggling to access an NHS dentist in Bradford.

This is not a new story to us, but the latest update should be that the situation is fast improving and that patients can easily find NHS-funded treatment, rather than being directed to neighbouring local authorities.

It’s appalling in this day and age that there are are people who cannot get access to a dentist without having to go privately.

NHS dental fees are high enough, so it seems bizarre that there aren’t enough NHS dentists to provide the access needed.

It’s amazing, given the level of demand, that more people aren’t establishing themselves in NHS practices.

Some of that is down to profit margins for NHS work being dramatically reduced over the years, but there should still be enough money in it to encourage people to go where the demand is.

In Bradford, especially, this situation has to improve. Last year we reported that children were having an average of nine baby teeth removed by the age of five. Previous reports have highlighted that three Bradford under-fives have teeth pulled out in hospital every week.

There is some encouraging news, such as the fluoride varnishing programme for young children, but we need a solution for everyone and quickly, so we don’t have to resort to tactics such as fluoridation of water.

It is time there was an independent review of NHS care in Bradford and a complete overhaul of the services on offer.