A description of a specialist led primary care based oral surgery service.

AIM: To describe the establishment of a referral only oral surgery service in a primary care setting together with the challenges, benefits and successes of the service. PROBLEM: In 1994 waiting times for hospital for oral surgery and maxillofacial procedures were unacceptably long. A proposal to establish a primary care oral surgery service aimed to complement the hospital-based service, reduce treatment delays. OUTCOME: Referrals commenced immediately in response to a managed launch with local dentists recognising the service as a source of expedient and convenient treatment for their patients. The service now treats up to 1300 patients per year. LEARNING POINTS: New dental services to dentistry can encompass different specialities. Initial capital investment is needed to develop a more cost-effective service. Recruitment of suitable specialist staff is a critical for success. Staffing, organisation and funding must be sustained.