Free dental treatment for town (From Chelmsford Weekly News)

Free dental treatment for town

7:20am Sunday 7th February 2010

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A HEALTH trust is offering free dental treatment as part of its plan to improve healthcare in Chelmsford.

The service will only be open to residents of mid Essex who have not seen a dentist for the past two years.

Dental practices across the area – ten in Chelmsford, four in Maldon and six in Braintree, Witham and Halstead – are participating in the scheme.

Dental practice adviser Adam Copsey, from Chelmsford, said: “We are really excited about this scheme.

“It’s now recognised poor oral health could lead to heart diseases and strokes. Therefore, it has become increasingly important to keep our teeth and gums healthy. I hope people make use of the scheme.’’ Assistant commissioning manager for primary care for NHS Mid Essex, Dehlia McNair, said: “We have set a priority to improve NHS dental care as part of our commitment to improving access to NHS services. It is important to encourage people to see a dentist in order to avoid health problems.”

She added: “At this stage the cost of the initiative is hard to quantify. It will depend on the volume of calls, vouchers issued and bands of treatment.”

Those eligible for the free treatment can call 01245 459358 during office hours, or log on to www.midessex.nhs.uk/freedental to claim the dental voucher, which will be posted to them.

The voucher has to be taken to the dental surgery with a proof of residence to access the free treatment.

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