Over 150 Children Face Tooth Extractions Daily in UK Dental Crisis

New data reveals a troubling trend in dental health among children in England, with over 150 children undergoing tooth extractions in hospitals every day. The statistics, published by the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID), indicate a significant surge in the number of dental operations required for young people under the age of 19, with procedures rising by nearly 20% over the past year.

The figures point to a notable disparity between regions, particularly highlighting the North of England as being disproportionately affected. A spokesperson for the British Dental Association (BDA) described this situation as “horrific,” urging for increased access to dental care for children. As the National Health Service (NHS) continues to struggle with patient access, many families are compelled to seek private care or, alarmingly, resort to self-extraction.

According to the data for the financial year ending in 2025, there were a total of 56,143 tooth extractions among children aged 0-19, representing a 14% increase from the previous year. The primary cause of these extractions is tooth decay, where bacteria deteriorate the tooth surface, leading to severe pain, infections, and cavities. Disturbingly, tooth-related issues have become the leading cause of hospital admissions for children in this age group.

Regional Disparities in Dental Health

Over the past five years, the rate of extractions among children has steadily increased, reflecting a concerning trend linked to the ongoing NHS dental crisis. Just two in five individuals in England have received a dental check-up in the last two years, according to previous surveys. While NHS experts suggest that these rising numbers may be a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic, BDA chairman Eddie Crouch emphasizes the need for improved and expanded dental care.

Crouch stated, “These horrific statistics are a badge of dishonour for governments past and present. Tooth decay can’t go unchallenged as the number one reason for child hospital admissions.” He advocates for targeted preventive programmes, arguing that government action is necessary to restore access to dental care, stating, “Dentists can’t nip these problems in the bud if we don’t get to see them.”

The data also reveals significant regional disparities in dental health across England. Yorkshire and the Humber reported the highest rate of extractions, with 504 extractions per 100,000 children aged 0-19. The North East and North West followed closely behind, with 433 and 376 extractions per 100,000, respectively. In stark contrast, the East Midlands recorded the lowest incidence of extractions, with only 72 cases per 100,000 children.

Call for Systemic Change

Dr. Charlotte Eckhardt, Dean of the Faculty of Dental Surgery at the Royal College of Surgeons of England, asserted that for the government to achieve its goal of transforming the NHS dental system by 2035, it is crucial to ensure that every child has access to a dentist when needed. “A postcode must never dictate a child’s health,” she emphasized.

The rising number of tooth extractions among children serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for systemic changes in dental care access. With the health of future generations at stake, stakeholders continue to call for immediate action to address the escalating dental crisis in the UK.