With the unprecedented changes currently facing many of us daily, keeping updated on the changes is essential. We’ll give you the rundown of any essential changes to our services and general dentistry
This year has been, as many say, unprecedented. While UK lockdown regulations have loosened over the past few weeks, it’s important to heed the Government’s advice and stay alert. Keep outside activities to a minimum wherever possible. Wash your hands thoroughly and keep a safe, 2-metre social distance. This is crucial for preventing the further spread of coronavirus across the UK population.
As of June 15th, certain shops and retailers are being allowed to re-open their stores. This is in the hopes of recovering the UK economy one step at a time. Although, for dentists, anxieties are still very high across the industry as our practices enter their second week being open to patients. As many dental practices have re-opened, safety measures must remain very strict. Part of this is the limited capacity we have for staff and patients at one time. This means that the number of patients we can see on any given day is very limited. This is causing concern for the industry.
Dentistry’s long waiting list
With a backlog of patients in need of seeing a dentist, we, as a profession, are facing increased pressures. A growing waiting list is being created as dental practices remain limited. Currently, dental groups are using innovative methods to consult with non-urgent patients through video or live chat. In-practice appointments are still being limited to patients in urgent need only. No routine check-ups are being booked as of yet. All of this has only added to the financial pressures of closing clinics for a lengthy period. It has forced many dental groups to close their doors indefinitely.
- Keep up to date with dentistry by checking out BDA’s latest updates, or keep on top of the Government’s current advice here
To add to this list of pressures currently facing dentistry across England since the reopening of clinics, strict measures about wearing the correct PPE at all times are being enforced.
Further guidance from NHS England has made it clear that all dental staff must continue wearing surgical masks inside practices when out of full PPE. This will ensure all dental staff are covered at all times while at work. We understand the importance of PPE and how it can prevent further infection. However, sourcing the amount of PPE required in such a limited time frame has proven impossible for some dental groups.
We, at Synergy, have been fortunate enough to use our connections. This has helped us source a sufficient amount of PPE for our practices to re-open. Now we’ve done so, we want to give back to those practices struggling to re-open. We’ve formed a subsidiary company to Synergy Dental Group in the form of Medic PPE. This aims to help those in need of getting their practices back open and running.
If you or someone you know is finding it difficult to source trusted, reliable PPE for their practice, you can contact us today. Alternatively, email us directly at sales@medicppe.co.uk. Shop for your PPE today at MedicPPE.
Unsure about your dental health? Call your nearest Synergy Dental Clinic and we’ll be happy to