Promoting smiles in supermarket aisles

The Centre for Dentistry set out as one of the first ever dental practices to locate itself within a Sainsbury’s, when it started practicing in October last year. The idea was that the supermarket offered a familiar and convenient backdrop for a visit to a dentist.

It was a gamble that worked.

Kristina Moore, who is the practice’s receptionist, commented: “Having a dental practice at the supermarket may be unorthodox but there are many advantages to this kind of dentistry.

“It’s always nice to see children coming through the door with smiles on their faces. The environment puts them at ease and makes the experience pleasant for everyone.”

Some of the patients are known to take advantage of the trip to this dentist by combining it with a weekly shop and children especially, do not suffer from anxiety so much, as they have a familiar backdrop that feels less intimidating than the usual dentists’ waiting room. Free parking and easy to arrange appointments have also been a draw for patients.

“We have just celebrated our one year anniversary and it’s all thanks to the support from our patients and the local community,” said practice manager Elizabeth McElroy.

“The quality of care we provide and the fact we have a convenient location, as well as extended open hours and affordability, has contributed to the success of the practice. This is especially the case with families and working adults who no longer need to miss other engagements, such as school and work, in order to come to the dentist.”

The idea of having the practice situated in-store in a supermarket is a revolutionary one and the team in Craigavon are said to be thrilled to celebrate their first year in business.

James Cunningham, dentist at Centre for Dentistry said: “During our first year of business we have had overwhelming positive feedback from our patients. They have been particularly impressed by the time we take to explain the treatments and procedures we offer.

“We want to introduce as many people as possible to the way we do things here. Our primary focus is to make dental visits as easy and as stress free as possible.”

The dental team are welcoming new patients to try them out to see the difference for themselves, especially anyone who has lapsed in visits to a dentist, is anxious or families that have a busy daily routine.

Email [email protected] for info.