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COVID-19: Practice recovery

Note that these resources are subject to change as new information becomes available. Therefore, please ensure that you are viewing the most recent version available on this webpage.

Ventilation Information for Dentistry

Effective ventilation is the major environmental factor in dissipating aerosols. Therefore, dental practices may be considering how to assess and, if necessary improve, ventilation in their premises. SDCEP has compiled a summary of information on ventilation, with a focus on advice and information that has relevance for dental facilities.

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About this resource

This document is provided for information and is not guidance. It has been compiled from several key publicly available documents developed by other organisations and expert groups, including the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE) Environmental and Modelling group (EMG) and NHS National Services for Scotland (NSS). This resource was developed with input from expert members of the SDCEP Mitigation of Aerosol Generating Procedures in Dentistry – A Rapid Review Working Group, and end-users. The information is presented under the following headings:
  1. Why is ventilation important?
  2. What is the difference between ventilation, air cleaners, extraoral suction and air conditioning?
  3. What types of building ventilation are used in dental surgeries?
  4. What are the requirements for ventilation in dental settings?
  5. What is the air change rate in my surgery?
  6. How does the ACH relate to post-AGP fallow time?
  7. How can I improve the ventilation in my surgery?
  8. Will an air cleaner help?

Rapid Review of AGPs

A rapid review of aerosol generating procedures in dentistry is available.

Other COVID-19 resources 

During the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, SDCEP provided several resources to support practices when there were severe restrictions on the care that could be provided. Subsequently, resources to support practice recovery were also provided. Since 1 November 2020, the General Dental Service in Scotland has been able to provide a full range of dental treatment for registered NHS patients. Consequently, the following resources are no longer extant and have been removed from the website. 

  • Management guide – 30 March 2020 
  • Drugs supplement – updated 11 May 2020 
  • Practice closure guide – updated 30 April 2020 
  • Resuming dental services guide – Phases 2 and 3 (PDF) 12 June 2020 
  • Practice reopening checklist (Word) 25 May 2020 

These archived resources are available on request. 

Comparison of UK Return-to-Practice Documents

Early in the COVID-19 pandemic, several return-to-practice guidance and standard operating procedure documents were produced across the UK. A comparison of the six main documents is published here with the agreement and involvement of the source organisations. The level of agreement across the source documents should provide reassurance to dental professionals in every area of the UK.

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