Why is the practice closed?
We made the difficult decision to close the practice following advice from our governing bodies and the NHS to cease all non-urgent treatment and not to carry out any procedures that could create aerosol.
Aerosol is the fine spray that is created by pretty much all the handpieces and scalers used in the practice. This spray can linger in the air for a long time. This combined with the fact that we are dealing with the area of the body most likely to spread the virus – the mouth, makes dentistry very high risk to both patients and the dental team.
How long will you be closed?
The short answer is we don’t know.
We will be re-arranging all appointments that were booked in April then re-assess the situation taking into account the latest government and health body guidance. Rest assured the whole dental team is eager to get back to normal and welcome all our patients back to the practice.
How can I best look after my teeth during lockdown?
Try using the eraser end of a pencil to push the wire into a more comfortable position. If you can’t reposition the wire, cover the end with orthodontic wax, a small cotton ball, or piece of gauze.
What is a dental emergency?
A dental emergency means:
– Unexplained facial swelling that is getting worse
– Sudden or excruciatingly painful toothache that prevents sleeping and eating, or combines with a fever
– A dental abscess that isn’t getting better
– Uncontrollable bleeding
– A fractured tooth with nerve exposure
What can I do if I have a dental emergency?
Call the practice on 01782 848708 as soon as you are aware of the problem, speak to one of the team or leave a message and someone will get back to you as soon as possible.
If you have facial swelling that affects your vision or breathing, or prevents you from opening your mouth more than 2 finger widths; or you suffer trauma that causes concussion or loss of consciousness go straight to A&E.
Will I be able to get an appointment when you open again?
We will be notifying everyone of when we are open again on the practice Facebook page, and by calling you if you have an appointment booked in.
To ensure that patients will be able to get an appointment as needed, we will be keeping open spaces in the diary for urgent appointments and emergencies. Also we will be opening extra clinics for dentists and hygienists wherever possible to increase our capacity on our return.