THE first patient of the new NHS dental practice in Chard, which opened this week, said it has allowed her to be treated for the first time in seven years.
One Smile Dental – Chard officially launched this week, with the opening taking place on Thursday, December 4 at 2.30pm.
Following the opening of an online portal to allow members of the community to register an interest, the practice has taken on 8000 patients and brought at least 16 new job opportunities to the area.
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Following the opening, Paige Aherne expressed her gratitude and relief, claiming the new practice has changed her life.
Paige, who lives in Henson Park in Chard, said: “I am feeling incredible, it is such a relief for the people of Chard and the surrounding areas.”
Before this, Paige admitted she had not received proper dental treatment since 2018 and never got a broken tooth treated.
She said: “So, sadly, [before this], I couldn’t get anywhere local. I managed to get registered with an NHS dentist, but it was up in Slough, so it was a lot of commuting, and it just wasn’t suitable, so since 2018, I haven’t actually had a suitable dentist that I could get to.
“It [has affected me] really badly, actually. I have had a lot of issues with my teeth. Also, it affects mental health, because obviously, if you are not feeling great or your smile isn’t how you like it, it all makes an impact.”
When asked how it has improved her quality of life, Paige said the practice opening has been “amazing” and has "changed her life" as she has had toothache for "so long”.
She said: “I got the phone call, couldn’t believe it because I know there is such a high demand, and they got me in the next day. I saw the dentist, which was brilliant, and we have already started a plan to help with my teeth and my gums.
“I have got to have a couple of root canals, a couple of fillings, because I had actually broken a tooth back before the pandemic, so I am finally getting it sorted.”
When asked what she would like to say to the team at the practice, she said: “[I would like to say] a massive thank you. Thank you for doing it, for all the hard work they have put in, and I know it is not easy with the high demand, so thank you for being so patient and so kind.”
Also among the first patients was Emily Farr, from Chard, who said: “It’s a huge relief to have this here. I’ve had problems with a tooth for three to four years. I have looked at private treatment, but the costs are in the thousands. This is very positive for Chard.”
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