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WHO urge for more research into COVID-19 transmission in dental settings

This week, the World Heath Organisation (WHO) spoke out to encourage more research into COVID-19 in dental settings. According to a Reuters report, the organisation warns of the ‘unknown’ consequences of AGPs for both staff and patients. Benoit Varenne said: ‘WHO guidance recommends in case of community transmission to give priority to urgent or emergency oral cases, to avoid or … Continued

IDA slam government for PPE shortcomings

The Irish Dental Association (IDA) has slammed the government for its shortcomings in honouring PPE commitments. The organisation is calling out the former Minister for Health, Simon Harris, for failing to deliver PPE to dentists within the promised 12-week time frame. The commitment was made at a meeting with the IDA, which took place on … Continued

Start to prepare for second wave of COVID-19, urge experts

  A second wave of COVID-19 infections could spread this winter – and Northern Ireland needs to start its preparations now.  This is according to a report from the Academy of Medical Sciences. It suggests a second wave of virus infections would be a ‘serious risk to health’ in the UK, including Northern Ireland. Factors such as the … Continued

CDO for Northern Ireland U-turns on UDC plans

The chief dental officer for Northern Ireland has confirmed urgent dental care centres (UDCs) will continue operating seven days a week. This follows communications sent on 7th July where the CDO, Michael Donaldson, set out the board’s intention to reduce service provision at all UDCs. However, in a new letter to the profession, he confirmed UDCs will operate … Continued

How COVID-19 has changed the role of the dental nurse

Gemma Forsythe is a dental nurse in Northern Ireland. She discusses the importance of adaptability and why dental nurses are crucial to the changing landscape of dentistry.  Lockdown This is going to sound a bit strange but…I enjoyed lockdown!  I know that most people hated it and found it quite difficult but I saw it … Continued

CDO for Northern Ireland questioned on COVID-19 dental decisions

The acting CDO for Northern Ireland has responded to a number of key dental issues voiced by the profession. Yesterday, CDO Michael Donaldson appeared before the Assembly Health Committee alongside Paul Montgomery, acting director of general health policy. The pair responded to a number of problems from committee members, many of which were highlighted by the British Dental … Continued

PPE concerns: BDA meets with health minister for Northern Ireland

The British Dental Association (BDA) met with the health minister for Northern Ireland following concerns over PPE and the sustainability of dentistry. On Monday, dental practices were able to kickstart non-AGP procedures for the first time since lockdown began. But ahead of AGPs being given the green light on 20th July, the group raised a number of … Continued