Millions in the UK have missed work due to oral health issues stemming from limited access to NHS dentists.

The UK allocates the least amount of its health budget to dentistry compared to other European countries.

An ongoing campaign, backed by nearly 200,000 petition signatures, demands the right to NHS dental care for all citizens.

Statistics show that 10% of adults and 20% of younger workers in England have taken sick leave due to dental problems.

83% of NHS dental surgeries are not currently accepting new adult patients, highlighting the accessibility crisis.

The petition calls for three main changes: universal access to NHS dentists, increased dental funding, and revisions to dentist contracts.

The British Dental Association cautions that the failure of NHS dentistry is damaging to individuals and the economy.

The Department of Health acknowledges the issue and claims efforts are underway to improve NHS dental service access.