Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health, what assessment he has made of the effect of dentures on the ability of elderly people to maintain a healthy diet.

Loss of teeth can affect an individual’s ability to eat, speak and socialise. Public Health England has advised the Department that the available literature supports the fact that well-fitting replacement dentures can enable a more varied diet and improve an individual’s quality of life. Dentures are available on the National Health Service and are free for those qualifying for exemption from patient charges. Individuals who are not exempt but are on a low income may qualify for help with dental costs through the NHS Low Income Scheme. Repairs to dentures are also free for everyone.