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Further COVID-19 restrictions imposed in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland will face further restrictions in a bid to curb the number of COVID-19 cases. Today, first minister Arlene Foster announced a package of measures, including the closure of the hospitality sector. From Friday, pubs and restaurants will be limited to takeaway and delivery services for the next four weeks. Additionally, schools will be closed from … Continued

Northern Ireland CDO speaks out following local lockdowns

The chief dental officer for Northern Ireland has confirmed it is ‘business as usual’ for dental practices. This comes as tightened restrictions are reintroduced in parts of Northern Ireland following a spike in COVID-19 cases. In the last seven days, more than 550 people have produced positive test results. The local lockdowns cover Belfast, Ballymena … Continued

New guidance issued on long-term health impact of COVID-19

Fresh guidance has been released to inform the public on the long-term health effects of coronavirus.  The new advice reveals that 10% of mild cases of COVID-19 who were not hospitalised reported symptoms lasting more than four weeks. Long-term heath issues include: Respiratory symptoms and conditions such as chronic cough, shortness of breath and lung … Continued

Government urged to supply further financial support for dental practices

A new report from the dental profession is calling on financial support for mixed and private services across the UK.  Key stakeholders and groups – including the British Dental Association (BDA) and the Association of Dental Groups – have looked at the financial support currently available. And as a result, they have written to Chancellor Rishi … Continued

What does the future of dental hygiene and therapy look like?

Lorna McGrath is the Northern Ireland regional group chair for the British Society of Dental Hygiene and Therapy (BSDHT). Here, she discusses the current situation for dental hygienists and dental therapists in Northern Ireland. Just like on the mainland UK, dental hygienists and dental therapists in Northern Ireland are facing many challenges right now. The greatest … Continued

Government starts to phase out UDCs in Northern Ireland

Urgent dental care centres (UDCs) in Northern Ireland will start to scale down over the next six weeks, it has been confirmed.  Over the last six weeks, the number of non-oral surgery cases carried out at UDC centres has dropped by 43%. The Health and Social Care Board anticipates increased AGP provision in dental practices throughout August … Continued

RQIA inspections at dental practices to go ahead in Northern Ireland

The RQIA will continue to carry out inspections at general dental practices in Northern Ireland, it has confirmed. In a letter to the profession this week, the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority outlined its plans for future inspections. It has enforced a number of changes in a bid to ensure inspections are carried out in … Continued