Scottish dentists wait for lockdown updates, as reopening date nears
Dentists in Scotland are waiting for updates on lockdown easing, as a possible reopening date nears.
The First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, is expected to reveal further details about the next phase of moving out of the lockdown on Thursday 18th June, with dentists hoping that they will be able to return to work shortly after. Practices in England were able to open from Monday 8th June, but only a third opened that week. In Scotland, clinics remain closed, with patients who need urgent assistance able to access treatment at local urgent dental care centres.
Scotland’s Chief Dental Officer, Tom Ferris, has urged dental practice owners to proceed with caution, suggesting that even if a date is revealed on Thursday, there is no guarantee that all clinics will be ready to open. Mr Ferris stressed that surgeries should only open if they have the relevant safety measures in place. Initially, as has been the case in England, practices will be treating priority patients with urgent needs, and appointment numbers will be restricted.
Kelty Dental Practice in Fife is one of many practices across the country preparing to reopen. This week, the team has been working hard to get the clinic ready and to communicate with patients so that they know what to expect if they make an appointment.
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