Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info A shocking report has revealed a string of dental nightmares from mothers and grandmothers, underlining the severe impact of the NHS crisis on women. The survey, conducted by the Women's Institute, showed that the lack of access to NHS dentists disproportionately affects women, who are more likely to be economically disadvantaged, have caring responsibilities, and suffer from poor dental health. Have you had issues trying to access dental care in your area? Have your say in our comments section The nationwide survey highlighted how women often put their own health on the back burner due to their caregiving responsibilities, sometimes skipping dental care so they can afford private treatment for a family member. The feedback from 1,000 participants revealed that new mums are at a higher risk of losing teeth due to limited access, while elderly women reported selling their homes to afford private dental care. Women all over the UK are facing unprecedented challenges in accessing crucial dental care, with many having to forego essential treatment during pregnancy and struggling to find NHS dentists willing to treat their children. Have you had issues finding a dentist in your area? View fullscreen The Mirror has launched a commendable 'Dentists for All' campaign pushing for universal dental care once more, in light of the escalating dental crisis in the UK. Jeryl Stone, the National Federation of Women's Institutes Chair, passionately expressed the severe effect this crisis is having on women: "Women up and down the country have been left at breaking point by the crisis in dental care. The hundreds of women who took part in our research have shared heart-breaking stories of personal sacrifice, and at the risk of personal health." A landmark investigation by the WI into the NHS dental care crisis reveals the unequal burden placed on women, with alarming accounts of lengthy waits for dental treatment on the NHS. One lady detailed her struggle, admitting: "When we first moved I tried every dentist within a 20-mile radius. I am currently on a four-year waiting list for an NHS dentist!" Echoing the sentiment, another said: "The NHS Dentist left the practice I attend; they advertised for over 18 months with no success for a replacement... if we want to stay with the practice we have to join Denplan." Additionally, the report cites past medical research underscoring the heightened dental risks encountered by expecting mothers due to hormonal fluctuations that could increase gum sensitivity and potentially cause pregnancy gingivitis. One distressed mother shared her ordeal: "I cannot find an NHS dentist within a 20-mile radius of my home for me or my two young children. During both pregnancies, I've not had access to a dentist. I'm on so many waiting lists for an NHS space that I've lost track. Neither child has seen a dentist and my oldest is four." Elderly individuals relying on fixed incomes have also voiced their struggles, with some having to move to smaller homes to manage the costs of dental treatments, including one case where over £6,000 was spent on dental implants. The Women's Institute is actively campaigning with their Dental Health Matters initiative, pressing the government to recognise and tackle the widespread issue of dental health among women, exacerbated by a system that is currently inadequate. They are advocating for a review of NHS dental contracts and an expansion of dental training placements. Eddie Crouch, the chair of the British Dental Association, remarked: "The crisis in NHS dentistry is having a unique impact on women up and down the country. From pregnancy to menopause, as parents and as carers, access problems often hit women hardest. This service can have a future, but only if ministers are willing to pick up the pace and keep their promises. Until then, patients - especially women - will continue to pay the price." Have you had issues trying to access dental care in your area? Have your say in our comments section