Gradual return of dentists from today

Almost two thirds of dental practices in England are not planning to reopen today, a survey by an industry union suggests.

The British Dental Association (BDA) warned there will be no return to “business as usual” for dentistry, with patients likely to see a “skeleton service.”

Practices have been told they can reopen from June 8 if adequate coronavirus safety measures are in place to protect staff and patients.

But a poll of 2,053 surgeries by the BDA found just over a third (36%) are planning to return. It comes as dental leaders expressed concern about a lack of personal protective equipment (PPE) for their practices, which would leave them shut.

BDA chairman Mick Armstrong said: “Anyone expecting dentistry to magically return on Monday will find only a skeleton service.

“Those practices reopening now face fewer patients and higher costs and will struggle to meet demand.

“Dentists returning to work still lack the support offered to our neighbours on the high street, and even clarity on key worker status when it comes to childcare.”

The BDA poll found that more than 60% of practices estimate they will be able to treat less than a quarter of the patient numbers they saw prior to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Just one third of practices said they had enough PPE to provide face-to-face care, and only 15% reported they would be able to offer a full range of treatment.

However, more than 80% of practices expect to reopen “to some level” by the end of June, according to the poll.

The BDA said social distancing policies and decontamination will lead to longer treatment slots and fewer patients, which could leave practices unable to maintain their financial viability.

The union said its findings “underline the need” for Government support and has called for clarification on key worker status for dental staff, as well as “action” on PPE.

According to the BDA’s poll, 78% of dentists said cash flow problems were a barrier to them reopening, while 63% said they had difficulties getting their practices ready for social distancing. If you need emergency treatment patients are advised to call your dentist or use the NHS 111 online service if you cannot contact your dentist or you do not have one. Meanwhile, suspected or confirmed coronavirus cases who require urgent dental care will be referred to Urgent Dental Care hubs.