Government accused of ignoring dentists’ fears

● Dental chief says frustration culminating in ‘vitriolic abuse’

Scotland’s dentists have reiterated their “dissatisfaction” with the government over what they say is a lack of negotiation and engagement over plans for the phased return of services.

In a scathing letter sent to the government’s chief dental officer Tom Ferris, the chairman of the British Dental Association’s

Scottish dental practice committee (SDPC) David McColl describes the confusion and frustration felt by the country’s dentists.

They have repeatedly warned elements of the government’s plans could “jeopardise patient safety” – including carrying out an examination without a three-in-one syringe, or detecting decay during an examination that cannot be effectively treated.

Aerosol tools are banned to limit the chance of spreading coronavirus.

Mr McColl said anger is at such a level that he and his vice-chairman on the committee had been subjected to “vitriolic abuse” over the negotiations.

The Scottish Government has insisted concerns are being listened to.

On Wednesday, the government’s clinical director, Professor Jason Leitch, said discussions with the BDA were continuing and he hoped to get a resolution “as quickly as possible”.

But the country’s dentists remain frustrated.

In his letter, Mr McColl said his and his colleague’s “professional integrity” was being repeatedly questioned because of a lack of engagement.

He said: “We understand these are exceptional times, and that on occasion there may be little time to negotiate fully and to reach a consensus.

“However, repeatedly sending important documents which are either a ‘done deal’ or with very little time to consider and discuss, does not represent meaningful engagement or negotiation. Both myself and the SDPC vice-chair have received sustained, vitriolic abuse on the Scottish Dental Practice Owners online platform, as we have been personally accused of failing to negotiate effectively with the Scottish Government.

“We have tried to engage constructively and effectively with the Scottish Government, but our professional integrity (and that of SDPC and the BDA) has been openly and repeatedly questioned by others in the profession due to the lack of engagement.

“This situation is highly stressful and clearly untenable.”

The Scottish Government was approached for comment.