Direct Access for Patients
Direct Access for Patients
Springfield Dental is proud to provide high quality dental treatment and patient care utilising all members of our team.
What is Direct Access?
At Springfield Dental we make full use of the expertise we have within our multi-disciplinary team including Dentists, Dental Therapists, Dental Hygienists, Dental Nurses, Treatment Co-Ordinators and the Receptionists.
Therefore, your appointment could be booked with another appropriately qualified clinician who will be able to provide your appropriate treatment needs.
This allows us to ensure you receive the best care from the most appropriate dental professional, while maintaining the same high standard of care and attention throughout your visits at Springfield Dental.
Since 2013, dental patients now have had the ability to directly access both Dental Therapists and Dental Hygienists for certain treatments without seeing the Dentist first.
This means, Dental Therapists and Dental Hygienists can treat patients directly, but also have the ability to refer onto the dentist for more advanced treatments such as dental implants, extractions, crowns, dentures and root canal treatment.
Direct Access appointments offer greater flexibility and choice for our valued patients, whether you are an existing or new patient looking for dental treatment. It means you get to see the right person at the right time for all your treatment needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can a Dental Hygienist provide?
Dental Hygienists can carry out scaling, gum disease treatment, check-ups and x-rays.
For full details of scope of practice from the GDC, see here.
What can a Dental Therapist provide?
Dental Therapists can carry out everything a Hygienist provides, plus fillings and cosmetic treatments such as composite bonding, tooth whitening, and intra oral scanning.
For full details of scope of practice from the GDC, see here.
What can a Dental Nurse provide?
A Dental Nurse with additional training can provide intra oral scanning, dental photographs, oral hygiene advice and instruction and apply fluoride varnish.
For full details of scope of practice from the GDC, see here.
Who can take advantage of Direct Access appointments?
Direct Access appointments are available to both new and existing patients.
Will the quality of care be affected?
By making full use of our whole dental team, we can make sure you see the right person at the right time, improving the quality of care for everyone.
What if I need to see a Dentist?
All members of our team are able to refer you to a dentist where a specific part of your treatment requires their expertise, ensuring you receive the most appropriate care at every stage.
Got More Questions?
Our team would love to help you, get in touch with us