Dentists are now able to reopen - here's what's to expect

Dental practices across the country have been closed since March 23 due to COVID-19, but now, with safety measures in place, they will steadily start to reopen.

Dentist, Dr Richard Marques, member of the British Dental Association, has given information on what clinics are doing to meet safety standards and what patients can expect when visiting their dentist.

In line with NHS guidelines and additional safety precautions, Dr Marques has advised that the following should be standard in all clinics:

Waiting room chairs spaced at least two meters apart

Single entry and exit points for patients

Hand sanitiser available for use

Physical barriers between staff and patients wherever possible

Staff to be screened on a daily basis

Dentists will wear masks

Dentists will wear protective visors (if possible/necessary)

Dentists will wear disposable gloves for each patient

Patients temperature may be taken before the appointment

In terms of booking an appointment, these will be scheduled over the phone or online only and you will be asked some screening questions to make sure you don’t have any apparent symptoms.

Dr Marques would still advise people to only make appointments if totally necessary.