Concerns over dentist's treatment

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Patients of a dentist suspected of practising poor standards of hygiene are being urged to have a health check.

Chris Bohler, who works at Great Bridge Dental Practice, Tipton, West Midlands, is thought to have been seeing patients privately despite being suspended.

Sandwell Primary Care Trust said it was worried patients may have been cross-infected.

It urged patients treated by Mr Bohler since February to come forward and was contacting 75 known to have seen him.

The dentist is suspended pending an investigation by the General Dental Council and has had his NHS contract terminated by Sandwell PCT.

We believe that the risks to patients of cross-infection are low Karen Elley, consultant in dental public health It follows an inspection of the practice earlier this month which was prompted by a patient's complaint.

Robert Bacon, chief executive of Sandwell PCT, said he was "sorry" for any distress caused to patients.

He added that he could not comment further on the details of the investigation into Mr Bohler.

Karen Elley, the PCT's consultant in dental public health, said: "We believe that the risks to patients of cross-infection are low.

"Nevertheless, we are asking all patients who have been treated by this dentist since February to have a health check, as a safeguard.

"We will also be checking the need for further dental treatment, which will be offered if appropriate."

Advice line

Dr Sue Ibbotson, the regional director of the Health Protection Agency West Midlands, said: "We are urging patients to attend the health screening, where they will have a blood sample taken to test for infection and also be offered a vaccine for Hepatitis B.

"We are taking these steps as a precautionary measure, I want to reassure anyone who is worried that the risk of infection is low."

Those treated by Mr Bohler since February are being asked to contact an advice line on 0845 603 8514.

Anyone who normally receives dental treatment at the practice and is in need of dental services should contact the PCT on 0845 155 0500 for an alternative.