SIR: In the Bolton Evening News of Monday, September 9, in an article on the provision of 'copy dentures' it was stated that 'A new set (of dentures) costs an average of £350'.

Many dentists in Bolton are still happy to provide dentures under the NHS for people who need them. The patient's charge, set by the Government, for a set of dentures is actually £86.19. People receiving benefit can obtain help with this charge and some may not have to pay at all.

It would be unfortunate if your estimate of the cost of new dentures put off people whose dentures need replacing, or dissuaded people from visiting dentists for further check-ups. Even people with no natural teeth left need to see a dentist every few years to make sure that their mouth remains healthy.

For further information/details on this matter please contact: Geoff Taylor, Consultant in Dental Public Health, Wigan and Bolton Health Authority. Tel 01204 390108.

John Parkinson,

Communications and Planning Manager,

Wigan and Bolton Health Authority,

Churchgate,

Bolton.

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