Dentists across Tayside will be able to reopen from Monday but only for emergency treatment.
The Chief Dental Officer said on Thursday that NHS dentists can carry out procedures to relieve pain and prevent infection as part of Scotland’s move into phase two of its route-map out of lockdown.
Since lockdown began, dentists have been taking calls from their patients and arranging emergency treatment at the Urgent Dental Care Centres (UDCC) in Arbroath, Dundee and Perth.
The range of treatments available will not change, but they will be offered by a patient’s own dentist as well as in the UDCC.
Routine care, such as check ups, hand scaling and denture work will not yet be available.
A spokesperson for NHS Tayside said: “There is a risk to patients and dental staff when using dental equipment that generates an aerosol and this includes fillings, crown preparation and surgical or complex extractions.
“These procedures will still not be possible in dental practices in Scotland at this time.
“For patients who have an emergency that urgently requires one of these procedures, your dentist will make arrangements to see you in the nearest UDCC where special precautions have been put in place.
“It is really important to look after your teeth as well as possible at all times, but especially now.
“Restricting sugar containing foods to meal times and brushing twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste will help to keep your mouth healthy.
“If you have a dental emergency at any time, you should call your dental practice for advice.”
