Coronavirus (COVID-19) 

Latest information regarding the service we can provide during COVID-19
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National lockdown from 5th November 2020
NHS dental practices are to remain open during the lockdown, we strongly advise patients to keep up to date with the national restrictions before visiting the practice for an appointment.  Details can be found at: www.gov.uk/guidance/new-national-restrictions-from-5-november
Priority remains focussed on patients who require access to urgent care, patients at higher risk of oral disease, and patients with outstanding treatment needs that cannot be delayed.
It is essential that patients telephone the practice to make an enquiry or schedule a visit and do not call into the practice without an appointment. 
We can confidently re-assure patients that: 
  • The team at Dam Street Dental Practice is committed to maintaining up-to-date infection control procedures.
  • ​The practice has well-established protocols that are regularly checked and audited against government standards.
  • Infection control measures and updated process are in place.
Advice if you have been offered an appointment:
  • Attend for an appointment alone, with the exception of children and patients in need of support or supervision
  • Do not arrive early for your appointment
  • Wear a face covering over mouth and nose (mask or scarf)
  • A distance of at least 2 metres must be observed at all times, with the exception of being with a member of the dental team wearing the appropriate PPE
  • Payment should be arranged by cards
  • Sanitise your hands on arrival
  • Be aware elective procedures may be deferred or reassessed
  • Treatment is provided only with appointment
  • Bring your own pen to sign paperwork 
  • Be aware that bathroom is out of use with the exception of an urgent need  

Patients with symptoms and/or living with others with symptoms:
NHS advice is currently that patients with either of the following symptoms of coronavirus should be in self isolation:
  • a high temperature – you feel hot to touch on your chest or back
  • a new, continuous cough – this means you’ve started coughing repeatedly
  • experiencing a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste.​
Full details can be found at: www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/self-isolation-and-treatment/how-long-to-self-isolate/
If you have experienced these symptoms in the last 14 days you should not attend the practice for at least 10 days from when symptoms started and after that only when you feel better and no longer have a high temperature.
If anyone in your household has experienced these symptoms in the last 14 days but you have not had any symptoms, then you should not attend the practice for 14 days from when the symptoms started in the first person who experienced symptoms.
If your are in self isolation and you need urgent or emergency dental treatment, you should not attend the practice but instead call 111 who will provide help and advice, and arrange any emergency dental treatment you require.