NHS Lanarkshire is reminding people across Lanarkshire that dental services remain available throughout the winter period, encouraging residents not to delay looking after their oral health during a time of year when routines can be disrupted.
Winter can bring additional pressures for individuals and families, including seasonal illness, reduced daylight hours and changes to daily habits. These factors can sometimes result in people postponing routine dental care or ignoring early signs of dental problems. NHS Lanarkshire is stressing that maintaining good oral health is an important part of overall wellbeing and that support is available locally for those who need it.
Dental pain, infections and gum problems can worsen if left untreated, potentially leading to more complex care needs. Seeking advice early can help prevent minor issues from becoming more serious and may reduce the need for urgent treatment later on.
Adults aged 16 and over who are not currently registered with an NHS dentist can access one free course of treatment through the Public Dental Service’s dental outreach clinic at the Buchanan Centre in Coatbridge. Treatment is carried out by dental students and dental hygiene/ therapy students, under the supervision of experienced dentists.
For people who are already registered with a dentist, referrals can be made to the student outreach clinic for either a single treatment or a full course of care, where appropriate.
Geraldeen Irving, Clinical Director for the Public Dental Service at NHS Lanarkshire, said: “Looking after your teeth and gums is an important part of staying healthy, and it’s something we shouldn’t put off during the winter months. When people are feeling unwell or busy with other pressures, dental care can sometimes take a back seat, but delaying treatment can allow problems to develop.
“Whether you’re already registered with a dentist or not, support is available locally. Our services are there to help people access the right care at the right time, and we would encourage anyone with concerns about their oral health to seek advice early rather than waiting until problems become more difficult to manage.”
Anyone wishing to join the Public Dental Service student outreach clinic waiting list can contact the team directly on 01698 754 650.
Alternatively, residents who would like to register with an NHS dentist for ongoing care are encouraged to visit www.nhslanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk/dental-services, where they can find information on dental practices in their area and details of practices currently accepting new NHS patients.
