I HAVE for the past seven years been a patient at a popular dentist in Stockton Heath.

Because I have crooked teeth on my bottom jaw the dentist referred me to the hygienist at the surgery and suggested a three-monthly appointment.

So for the past six years I have been attending the hygienist every three months, four times a year on top of my six-month annual check ups by the dentist.

All this at NHS rates as I am an NHS patient and pay for my treatment. In September 2017 my dentist retired and a new female dentist was appointed.

At my last appointment with her she mentioned something about paying £35 to see the hygienist from April but didn’t explain the matter properly.

Imagine my surprise when I visited the hygienist this week to be charged £35 for my treatment.

When I asked why she said you only pay the NHS rate if it is a clinical need.

If it’s cosmetic you are charged as a private patient.

I have to question when did my clinical need for the hygienist cease?

Was it six months ago, 12 months ago, one year, two years ago, three years ago, four years ago, five years ago?

This is a hard bite to swallow without a proper explanation.

GARY BEBBINGTON Grappenhall