A dental surgery in Norwich is offering free NHS check-ups for children this weekend. 

The check-ups at West Earlham Dental Health Practice are for parents who may be struggling to get their child to see a dentist. 

The practice is offering full examinations, oral health screenings, advice, and any necessary treatment if required during the appointments on Saturday (February 10). 

READ MORE: Norfolk NHS announces more funding to tackle dental crisis

West Earlham Dental Health Practice said the check-ups are needed amid “spiralling wait times for NHS dentistry”. 

Receiving hundreds of calls since the event was posted online, the practice is keen to support the local community despite “chronic underfunding from the government”. 

It comes as it was announced that dentists are to get cash for new patients under plans to boost dentistry across England. 

Around a million people who have not seen a dentist for two or more years are expected to benefit as officials offer a “new patient payment” of £15 to £50. 

The plans, which are expected to boost dental appointments across the country by 2.5 million next year, will also see patients able to view which local dentists are accepting new NHS patients at the touch of a button. 

READ MORE: Hundreds forced to A&E for tooth troubles amid dental shortages

Dentists will be paid more for their NHS work under the NHS Dental Recovery Plan. 

But leading dentists said the plan will not be enough to help people struggling to access dental care. 

Despite an “overwhelming response”, appointments are still available at West Earlham Dental Health Practice on Saturday and can be made with a £10 fully refundable deposit by calling the practice.