The British Dental Association (BDA) has received clear confirmation that dentists and their staff will be designated as key workers during the pandemic.
Officials have confirmed that team members meet the criteria set out by the Department for Education earlier this morning.
The move follows recent discussions between the BDA and NHS England. With schools and nurseries facing shut down UK-wide this move should enable all team members with children to remain in practice, with provisions in place for childcare.
The BDA believes this should apply to teams operating in private practice, and is seeking urgent clarity.
The Chair of the BDA’s General Dental Practice Committee Dave Cottam said: “With schools facing shutdown recognising dentists and their teams as key workers is an essential step.
“We know parents face unique challenges at this unprecedented time. This move will enable colleagues to continue delivering care, and support the wider health service.”
