Dentists are finding it increasingly difficult to obtain supplies of dental local anaesthetics (LAs) due to the shortage that has arisen since Dentsply ceased production of some of their product range. The BDA and the Department of Health are aware of the situation and are trying to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.

Members of the BDA's Dental Advisory Group to the British National Formulary discussed the current shortage of LAs with the Department of Health (DH) during a meeting on March 1st. The DH is in regular contact with Septodont, an alternative LA supplier, who has issued a statement saying it is confident it will be able to supply the anaesthetic needed by the market as and when required. Together they are attempting to resolve the problems as quickly as possible and are looking into the possibility of obtaining supplies from the continent. In addition, the DH is considering conducting a census to establish an accurate UK-wide picture of the situation and identify whether particular regions are having more difficulty than others in obtaining LA supplies. It was noted in the meeting that bulk buying by dentists would not help attempts to resolve current supply problems.

The DH has agreed to keep the BDA updated about any action to rectify the shortage and the BDA is also in regular contact with both Dentsply and Septodont. The BDA will keep members updated of any changes to the current situation through the BDA website (www.bda.org) and will also inform members of the outcome of any action that has been taken. The full statement issued by Septodont on 8 March is also available to read on the site.

The BDA and Septodont would like to encourage dentists to order stocks at a 'normal' rate wherever possible and not to be tempted to bulk buy, as this could put more pressure on supplies.