TWO dental practices aiming to re-open in Taunton on Monday have outlined how they plan to operate.

The {my}dentists outlets in Canon Street and Cheddon Road will be operating "a limited range of dental treatments".

Patients have received notification which says: "People in the greatest need of seeing a dentist will be seen first, including anybody we know has been in pain during lockdown.

"That means that whilst we are working hard to see everyone, if you had a routine check-up booked before the Covid-19 outbreak this may be cancelled to allow us to see patients in pain."

Anyone experiencing a "current dental issue" should still phone the practice for advice and support.

Patients will not be able to book a routine appointment as the two practices are currently taking additional measures to ensure they comply with infection control and social distancing for the safety of patients and staff.

And no-one should attend the practices in person unless asked to do so.

There will be protection measures in place, including paying over the phone and completing registration forms via e-mail.

On arrival at the practice, patients, who should arrive alone, will need to call and will then be met by a nurse at the door.

Their temperature will be checked and they will be required to use a hand sanitiser.

Anyone with a temperature over 37.7 degs C will be asked to attend another practice or attend on a different day.

If your temperature is under 37.8 degs C, the receptionist will check you in and the nurse will take you through to the surgery. You won’t have to wait in the waiting room.

After confirming your details, the dentist will proceed with the assessment and agree the best treatment with you and carry out treatment if appropriate and agreed.

The nurses will then lead you out of the surgery and ask you to again use the hand sanitiser.

If additional payment is necessary, you can do so at reception. Contactless payments are available.

You will then be checked out of the practice ensuring minimum contact with other patients.

A {my}dentist spokesman said: "We very much appreciate all of your patience throughout this time.

"We look forward to seeing you again in practice as soon as we are safely able to do so.