Every appointment matters: How you help us care for more patients

Recently, we had a call from someone who was in pain and urgently needed help. Sadly, our diary was already full and we simply couldn’t fit them in.

Later that same day, another patient didn’t attend their appointment without letting us know. By the time we realised, it was too late to offer the space to someone else, including the person who had called earlier.

We know that life can be unpredictable and plans sometimes change, but missed appointments can have a much bigger impact than you might think.

That’s why we want to share why your appointment matters, and how a simple phone call can make all the difference.

A Thank You from Us

First, a big thank you to everyone who attends on time or gives us good notice when they can’t make it. Your thoughtfulness helps us keep on schedule, avoid delays, and provide the best care possible for every patient.

Why We Ask for 48 Hours’ Notice

Sometimes patients do let us know they can’t come, but if it’s very close to the appointment, it’s difficult to offer the time to someone else — especially for longer treatments.

That’s why we ask for at least 48 working hours’ notice if you need to cancel or rearrange. This allows us to:

• Offer the space to someone waiting to be seen

• Prioritise patients in pain or with urgent needs

• Keep things running smoothly for everyone

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How Missed Appointments Affect Others

When a chair is empty, it’s not just our team who feels the impact. Every appointment slot represents an opportunity for someone to:

• Find relief from dental pain

• Catch a problem before it becomes more serious

• Take a step towards better oral health and confidence

When appointments are missed, those opportunities are lost.

How You Can Help

We want to make your dental care simple and stress free. Here’s how you can help us care for more people:

• Let us know as soon as possible if you need to cancel or reschedule

• Keep your contact details up to date so you never miss reminders

• Ask us if you’re unsure about availability — we’ll help you find a time that works better

  
  

Looking After Your Health

By attending your appointments, or letting us know in advance if plans change, you help us care for more people and keep waiting times down. More importantly, you protect your own oral health.

Routine dental health and hygiene visits are the best way to spot and treat problems early, before they become more complicated. Your commitment to attending makes a real difference — to you, to other patients, and to the whole Hermitage Dental Practice community.

Thank you for helping us provide the best possible care.

Need to update your details or change an appointment?

Just give us a call, WhatsApp or use our online contact form. We’re always happy to help.