The Irish Dental Association (IDA) notes the World Health Organisation (WHO) report released yesterday (Tuesday) which advises on dental care in the context of Covid-19.

The safety of patients, dental staff and dentists themselves is the highest priority for dentists across the country. The IDA is paying close attention to all guidance being issued in relation to Covid-19, including from the HSE, the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC), the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) and WHO.

The WHO report makes clear that the suspension of routine treatments would only arise in the context of community transmission (which is very low here now) or where official recommendations at national or regional level suggest this. 

The report makes no mention of Ireland and recognises that national authorities, to whom this report is aimed, are best placed to provide guidance reflecting the circumstances and data in each country.

Bearing in mind that on May 18th, 2020, the HPSC advised that routine dental care could recommence in Ireland, a view which was endorsed by the Dental Council, the Association has concluded there is nothing in this WHO report to suggest that revised guidance is necessary in Ireland and therefore no change is required as regards guidance to Irish dentists. 

Dental practices remain open for business, and they are adhering to all the necessary guidelines and infection control measures in order to maximise the safety of patients, their staff and themselves.