Ever wondered if you can book a dental hygienist appointment without seeing a dentist first? The answer is yes. At well:o, we’re all about dental wellness. Convenient access to professional oral care is central to this, and Direct Access makes it possible.
What is Direct Access? Direct Access means you can schedule an appointment directly with a registered dental hygienist or therapist, without requiring a referral from a dentist. It’s the result of a change made by the General Dental Council (GDC) in 2013. It’s about putting the power in patients’ hands, offering flexibility and choice in your oral health journey.
Freedom to Choose: Whether you’re an existing patient or new to our practice, Direct Access gives you the freedom to get in touch with our hygienists and therapists for specific treatments within their scope of practice. It’s about making dental care more accessible and tailored to your needs.
Understanding Scope of Practice: Each of our dental care professionals are GDC-registered, offering a range of treatments within their defined scope. From preventive care to certain treatments, they’re here to help you achieve optimal oral health.
Dental hygienists and therapists are trained to carry out the following:
- Clinical examinations
- Oral Cancer screening
- Complete Periodontal charting, using indices to screen and monitor periodontal diseases
- Diagnosis and treatment planning
- Recommend radiographs (if trained), interpret and report on radiographs
- Alternatively, a patient may be referred for radiographs
- Oral Hygiene advice
- Dietary advice
- Smoking Cessation
- Plan delivery of care
Empowering Your Decision-Making: During your visit, our hygienists will discuss available treatments, ensuring you’re informed every step of the way. If a dentist referral is necessary, this will be clearly explained to you, prioritising your comfort and understanding.
Our Commitment to You: well:o exists to provide preventive, patient-centred dental hygiene treatments. Your oral health matters, and we’re here to support you in achieving and maintaining a healthy, confident smile.
So, if you’ve been asking whether it’s possible to see a hygienist without seeing a dentist, the answer is yes, thanks to Direct Access. It’s about convenience, choice, and empowering you to take control of your oral health.
You can find out more about Direct Access from the General Dental Council, or get in touch with the team at well:o.
