Dental practise patients warned over instrument contamination fears

Patients of a North Berwick dental practise have been issued a warning over contamination fears.

Following a visit to the dentist by public health officials, patients of Law Road Dental practise were advised in writing that some infection control procedures, including decontamination for a small number of instruments, did not meet national standards.

While risk of infection is very low, information and tests have been made available to patients concerned about viruses like HIV and Hepatitis B and C.

Dr Christine Evans, consultant in Public Health Medicine at NHS Lothian, said: "We are working closely with local and national experts and have concluded there is a very low risk of infection to patients.

“While general infection control procedures were in place, it was found that a small number of infection control procedures did not comply with national standards.

"Our priority is always the safety and welfare of patients and NHS Lothian has therefore decided to write to inform them of this matter. The letter stresses that no action is required by the patient, but further advice and testing will be available if anyone remains concerned having read the letter and after calling the dedicated helpline. We have taken similar action to inform staff employed by the practice."

Letters were sent to more than 3500 private and NHS patients who registered at the independent practise between February 5, 2009, when it changed ownership, and May 23, 2012, as well as staff members.

Following specialist public health advice, NHS Lothian has been assured that infection control procedures at the practise are now satisfactory and meet national standards, though it will continue to be monitored.

A dedicated helpline has been set up for patients who remain concerned about their health, and can be contacted on 08000 28 28 36 between 8am and 10pm.

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