Community dentistry refers to dental services provided to specific groups of patients who may have difficulty accessing traditional dental care due to factors such as disability, medical conditions, or social circumstances.
Community dentistry services are typically provided by the National Health Service (NHS) usually in hospitals, or community health centers. The goal of these services is to ensure that all patients have access to high-quality dental care, regardless of their individual circumstances and unique needs. Examples of patients who may benefit from community dentistry services include:
People with physical disabilities or mobility issues
Individuals with complex medical conditions that require specialised dental care
Patients with mental health or behavioural challenges that make it difficult to receive treatment in a traditional dental setting
Patients who require dental care in a language other than English
Patients who for whatever reason need more time and reassurance than traditional dentists can provide. For example those suffering from dental anxiety.
Patients who require specialist sedation. We offer inhalation, intravenous (IV) and oral.
Many traditional dental practices do not offer Community dental services and instead refer these patients.
At Sonria Dental Clinic we are proud to offer services that are designed to meet the unique needs of a diverse range of patients including these patient populations. In addition we can fast track these patients when necessary to ensure they are seen within a few days or on an emergency basis.
We also appreciate that there is a level of vulnerability that many patients feel whenever they visit any medical professional. Our clinic is a warm and welcoming environment where we offer patient guided, pain-free, gentle and holistic dentistry in a way that really puts the patient at ease and in the driving seat.
Each and every member of our multilingual team, from front desk team to our dental experts, are trained to be highly attuned to the unique needs of each patient in order to genuinely connect with, and put the patient at ease. Trust, compassionate and inclusion is at the heart of everything we do.
We find solutions that best fit the whole person, not just their teeth. This means taking into account their lifestyle, main concerns, fears, anxiety, or other factors concerning their physical and mental health.
We continuously update our skills through ongoing professional development and evidence-based practices. This enables us to meet the needs of various patient groups, including children and adults with learning or physical disabilities. In terms of accessibility, we use ramps to navigate stairs and have staff who are trained to transfer patients on banco slide boards.
We implement tailored behaviour management, acclimatisation and non-verbal communication techniques to ensure each patient’s individual needs are addressed.
Recognising that everyone is different, we personalise treatment plans to suit each patient.
We have a variety of techniques to help put anxious patients at ease. They can also choose to have inhalation sedation if they prefer. We offer safe and effective treatment while reducing the need for hospital and specialists referrals for more complex techniques.
So why not get in contact and speak with one of our team to discuss your needs and concerns. Let us help you take that all important next step on your wellness journey.
Posted on 15 November 2024 by Sonria Dental Clinic
