How to get an NHS dentist appointment during COVID-19
Routine dental care has had to change because of COVID-19, with social distancing rules making it difficult to access services. Here’s some information on how to access an NHS dentist during the pandemic.
From 8 June 2020, dentists have been given the green light to reopen as long as they have social distancing measures and the right personal protective equipment in place.
As a result, not all services or practices will be available from this date and there will be fewer appointments available.
How do I find a dentist?
To get the help you need you can:
- Phone your local dentist to get information about their opening hours and advice on where you can go to get the care you need
- If you don’t have a dentist or your dentist is closed, you can phone NHS 111. Translation services are available.
- Or contact Healthwatch Lincolnshire info@healthwatchlincolnshire.co.uk or call 07436 582001
- If you are deaf or hard of hearing visit https://interpreternow.co.uk/nhs111
Do not visit a dentist without an appointment.
Practices will need to prioritise their patients based upon their needs. The British Dental Association advises:
- If you call to make an appointment, you will be asked some screening questions. You’ll be asked those same questions again at your appointment
- You will probably be asked to use hand sanitiser or to wash your hands when you arrive (and again before you leave)
- Social distancing measures will be in place in the waiting rooms
- Appointments will be managed to allow for social distancing between patients. That might mean that you’re offered fewer options for scheduling your appointment.
I need urgent dental assistance – what can I do?
For urgent advice on any oral health issue you can call:
- NHS 111 (open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
- Call the dental helpline at 01788 539780 (local rate call in the UK) for free and impartial advice between 9 am – 5 pm, Monday to Friday.
