Sheffield dentists pick up a different type of drill to polish off expansion plans

A Sheffield dentist had to pick up a drill of a different kind when lockdown forced renovations to a standstill and she decided it would be ‘vital’ to get it done herself so that patients could be welcomed back.
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Sharrow Vale Dental Care on Sharrow Vale Road has been established for over 30 years, and have now started treating third or fourth generations of Sheffield families.

Last year, an expansion was planned – with numerous tradespeople on hand to carry out the maintenance and renovation works.

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However, the first Covid-enforced lockdown in March 2020 brought everything to ‘a stand-still’, and the head of the dental practice was forced to swap the dental drill for a DIY one as she thought it would be ‘vital’ to carry out the works and open up for patients as soon as it was possible.

Dentists from Sharrow Vale Dental CareDentists from Sharrow Vale Dental Care
Dentists from Sharrow Vale Dental Care

Galer Farrer, principal dentist at Sharrow Vale Dental Care, said: “The practice was mid-expansion, taking it from two surgeries to four surgeries.

"Everything came to a stand-still. As ordered by the Chief Dental Officer the practice was closed from March 24 until June 14 2020. All bar two tradesmen ceased work and the owner knew that it was vital it would be finished so dental treatments could resume when given the go ahead.

"Patients telephoned daily with pain, lost fillings or broken teeth and there was no other option for me to answer the patient phone calls and do the DIY.

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"I painted most of the inside of the building, loaded skips, used woodwork skills and rebranded the practice etc.

Renovations took place during the first lockdown in 2020Renovations took place during the first lockdown in 2020
Renovations took place during the first lockdown in 2020

“Incredibly, everything came together and since reopening in June 2020 the practice is very proud to continue to provide care for current patients and is welcoming new private patients."

The practice reopened with strict safety measures, helping protect both staff and patients.

Now, as if DIY wasn’t enough, staff are even going the extra mile for charity by running a 10km challenge for Weston Park Cancer Charity.

Galer Farrer added: "As you can tell nothing stands still at Sharrow Vale Dental Care, with a dynamic and passionate team we aim to provide the very best treatments.”

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