Take bite out of dentophobia

Published on Monday 29 September 2008 09:59

SPECIALLY-trained "phobia" dentists are set to go to work in the Lothians, helping those too terrified to have their teeth touched.

Patients fearful of a trip to the dentist's chair will be among those helped at a 1 million new walk-in surgery in Bonnyrigg, Midlothian.

The centre, which will be officially opened tomorrow by health secretary Nicola Sturgeon, will allow patients to be treated on-the-spot, as well as providing additional NHS support for the area.

Phobia dentists use a range of methods to help fearful patients, such as burning scented candles and allowing patients to watch DVDs, as well as employing mild hypnotic therapies like relaxing music or aromatherapy massage.

It is not yet known exactly what treatments will be on offer in Midlothian, with clinical director of community dental services for NHS Lothian, Robert Naysmith, saying mild sedation would be one of the options.

He said: "As well as offering special care it will also offer a service to patients who are anxious about having dental treatment.

"This service, which will be undertaken by specially-trained dentists, will offer advice and support as well as mild sedation for this type of patient, who have been unable to visit their dentist."

NHS Lothian added that people with phobias would have to be specifically referred but will be able to walk in off the street for emergency or short courses of treatment.

The new facility is made-up of five purpose-built surgeries within the former Bonnyrigg Health Centre and will have a team of 20 dental professionals.

As well as the phobia dentists there will be specialist care for elderly, frail and children, and an emergency facility for unregistered patients.

Ahead of its opening Ms Sturgeon said: "The new centre offers high-quality NHS care and specialist dental services, right in the heart of the community.

"Not only do its five dental surgeries offer treatment for those not currently registered with an NHS dentist, but also offers more training opportunities for the dental professionals who work here.

"The Bonnyrigg Dental Centre is a fine example of exactly the sort of accessible, modern facilities we would like to see across the country."

Dr Charles Winstanley, chairman of NHS Lothian, added: "This is a significant investment in dental services in Midlothian which I am sure the local community will welcome.

"It demonstrates our commitment to providing more accessible dental services for patients in their own community."