Bideford Hygienist Welcomes New Legislation
A dental hygienist from Bideford, Devon has welcomed changes to the law, which enable patients to access a dental hygienist without a referral from their dentist.
Dee Benton believes that the changes, which came into play on the 1st May will enable patients easier access to dental hygiene services, which will serve to reduce rates of decay and gum disease. Previously, patients had to be referred by their dentist to see a dental hygienist.
Dee said that patients have had to see their dentist before being able to book an appointment with a dental hygienist since 1945 and the change marks a major step forward, especially as the The British Society of Dental Hygiene and Therapy has been campaigning for new legislation for the last two decades.
Dee also thinks that the new laws will give patients better access to preventative dental treatment and advice about oral health issues, such as lifestyle choices, diet and oral hygiene.
She had said that she had heard some dentists were worried about losing trade as a result of the changes; however, she said that the situation was “win-win” for the dental profession.
The law also means that patients who attend a practice that does not have a hygienist as part of the dental team can keep their dentist and see a dental hygienist at a different practice, rather than having to switch dentist.
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