Direct access to hygienists

Up to now, hygienists have only been allowed to treat patients under the prescription of a dentist but the rules are changing.
The insistence that patients must be seen by a dentist before they can see a hygienist has caused much frustration.  Whilst it may be thought that this was a local rule designed to bring additional income to practices, it is in fact enshrined in British law which states that hygienists & dental therapists can only work under the prescription of a dentist.  This contrasts with the USA and other countries where direct access is allowed.

However, the General Dental Council has just announced that, with effect from 1 May 2013, the rules are changing and patients will now be able to seek treatment from a hygienist without seeing a dentist first. Further details have been promised nearer the time.

AllClear welcomes this decision which underlines the importance of hygienists within the dental team.  For more details of our hygienists and other services that we offer, call in, phone 020 8688 3869 or see our website.