Dentistry done differently: how the Special Care Dental Service make a difference to patients in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight
Solent NHS Trust is calling upon dentists who wish to make a difference for patients with additional needs, inviting them to their Special Care Dental Service Recruitment Events in September.
The Special Care Dental Service provides specialist and paediatric dental care those with additional needs who cannot receive care in a general dental setting. The teams serve communities across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, working from 13 bespoke clinics with state-of-the-art equipment and the use of theatres in local hospitals.
‘Mark’, a patient whose name has been changed for confidentiality purposes, visits the clinic with his assistance dog. Speaking about his experiences, he said: “I find going to the dentist a panic-inducing experience. I’ve always had problems with my teeth and found one previous experience at the dentist very traumatic.
“My mum recommended the Special Care Dental Service and it’s been a completely different experience. I still dread going but it’s now manageable. Due to my depression and sensory issues, I often go through periods where I cannot brush my teeth. Before I would feel guilty and dread that I was going to be criticised. However, this no longer happens.
“They understand what is happening and offer advice, they never make you feel bad. They implement a new system for when I need work done as, due to my previous traumatic experience, I cannot go through it as it is normally set out. They have allowed me to maintain reasonable dental health which would not be possible without their support.”
The Trust are currently inviting experienced and newly qualified dentists, who are registered with the General Dental Council and currently listed on the NHS Dental Performers List, to apply and/or learn more about the service at their special care dental recruitment events in Andover, Southampton, Portsmouth and the Isle of Wight from 25 - 28 September 2023.
At the event, you’ll have the opportunity to meet the team, ask questions and find out more about what Solent can offer. Register for the free events here.
View the current vacancies here.