THE issue of dental health in the Bradford district is one that needs some attention.

Figures show that 46 per cent of five-year-olds have tooth decay – that compares to a national average of 28 per cent.

It is an alarming statistic, and one which has led to Bradford South MP Judith Cummins raising the lack of NHS dentists in the district in the House of Commons.

HEALTH WATCHDOG GETS TEETH INTO BRADFORD'S NHS DENTIST SHORTAGE

Now, a health watchdog group is trying to get a true picture of just how bad the shortage is in Bradford.

Healthwatch Bradford District is encouraging people to take part in its online survey to try and get an accurate impression.

What is in no doubt is that too many people – particularly families – are not able to easily access dental care.

Healthwatch says that it is often having to tell people that their nearest NHS dentist is several miles away.

The survey represents a good starting point for looking at this issue, and hopefully it will reveal the full extent of the problem – and where any particular blackspots are.

Once that picture is complete, then work can begin to improve the situation. And for that reason, it is vital as many people as possible take part in it.

What is very clear, though, is that it is unacceptable for the Bradford district to have such a high figure of tooth decay among its very young children.

Dental care has got to be available and completely accessible for everybody, and at the moment, it would seem that is not the case.