Children’s tooth extractions highlight gaps in NHS access

Dental Tribune International

Wed. 25. February 2026

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LONDON, England: Dental health in children remains a significant public health concern, and new data has underscored ongoing pressures on services. Recent hospital statistics from National Health Service (NHS) England paint a picture of persistent need, and there has been a call for stronger prevention. The figures emphasise the importance of early intervention and equitable access to care.

The Office for Health Improvement and Disparities this month published a statistical commentary that provides detailed analysis of hospital activity related to tooth extractions in those younger than 20. The report outlines trends in hospital episodes, including rates, age distribution and causes, and it finds that caries remains a leading cause of hospital admissions in children. It also notes regional disparities linked to deprivation, suggesting that children in more disadvantaged areas continue to experience poorer oral health outcomes.

According to the official data, for children aged 0 to 19 there were 33,976 tooth extractions with a primary diagnosis of tooth decay, which marks an increase of 11% on the previous year. Tellingly, the number of tooth extractions due to such decay represents 60.5% of all tooth extractions for this age group.

In a press release, the Royal College of Surgeons of England has responded to this newly published data and highlights the continued burden of caries among children and young people. It emphasises that hospital procedures for dental extractions remain common, reflecting gaps in preventive care and access to routine dentistry. The organisation presents the figures as evidence of a largely preventable public health and access problem, pointing to the need for sustained investment in NHS dental services and expanded prevention programmes.

Speaking in the same press release, Dr Charlotte Eckhardt, dean of the Faculty of Dental Surgery at the Royal College of Surgeons of England, said: “No child should be hospitalised for a disease that is almost entirely preventable. Tooth decay is causing unnecessary pain, missed school days and avoidable hospital admissions at a higher rate in 2025 than the year before. This direction of travel must be reversed.”

The government commentary highlights the scale and persistence of caries in children, as well as the continued pressure on hospital services from child tooth extractions. The response to the new figures has made clear the urgent need to prioritise prevention and reduce inequalities in children’s oral health across England.