Open wide invitation is big success (From Wharfedale Observer)

Open wide invitation is big success

7:10am Saturday 12th May 2012 in Local news

More than 4,000 people received NHS dental care during a series of open access days.

Nearly half of all NHS practices across the district opened their doors to new patients on three dates in February and March, with check-ups and – where necessary – treatment being offered to people booking appointments in advance.

A total of 4,396 appointments were made over the three days.

The venture followed extra one-off funding from the Department of Health to increase the number of people able to see an NHS dentist.

NHS Airedale, Bradford and Leeds, which successfully bid for a share of the cash, was particularly keen to attract patients who had not seen a dentist for two years or more.

Deputy director of primary care Catherine Thatcher said: “The access days proved a great success, with over 4,000 people getting dental care they might otherwise not have received.

“I would like to thank the practices which took part for their positive response and commitment to increase dental access for so many local people. We’ll continue to extend and improve services to make sure we’re doing everything we can to encourage people to see their dentist regularly.”

Anyone looking for a dentist can go to the NHS Choices website at nhs.uk