Painless alternative to DIY dentistry

Thursday, 12 February 2009 12:00

There is an alternative to DIY dentistry, an insurer has said following a report millions are attempting carrying out their own dental procedures through lack of cash.

Health insurer HSF is encouraging people to take up a health cash plan to help cover dental costs after a Which? report found that millions of people, unable to get an NHS dental appointment, are being forced to carry out DIY dentistry.

The report revealed around three million people have resorted to DIY dentistry, with a further three million knowing someone else who has.

Of those trying DIY dentistry, 26 per cent have tried to pull a tooth using pliers and 12 per cent have tried tying a piece of string to a door handle.

The Which? report findings are reaffirmed by a survey commissioned by HSF health plan that found 48 per cent of UK residents are putting off medical checks, such as the dentist or optician, because of the cost - a rise of 30 per cent since 2006.

However, a health cash plan can give money back on everyday medical expenses, including dental appointments and procedures, contact lenses and acupuncture, and also covers unexpected costs, such as those incurred during hospital visits.

Jasmine Birtles, the financial expert behind Moneymagpie.com, said: "The great benefit of health cash plans is that they help families and individuals budget each month for potentially costly treatments."

Plans start from £6 per month, the insurer said.

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