A dental service for British armed forces in Cyprus has received a BDA Good Practice Scheme accreditation.

Dental Centre Episkopi has achieved a double first because it is the first military and first overseas practice to join the scheme.

The centre is one of four Defence Dental Services (DDS) practices in Cyprus that provide care for the British military community. Episkopi has a population of 2,500 including 1,000 service personnel, their families and supporting organisations. The centre is the headquarters of the British Sovereign Base Area on the island so civil servants are also entitled to receive treatment.

Dental Officer Major Eamonn Murphy and Practice Manager Sergeant Steve Mear, both in the Royal Army Dental Corps, attended the previous BDTA Dental Showcase where a GPS plaque was presented by the BDA president.

According to the team, military dentistry has a different emphasis to general civilian practice. The DDS's priority is to maintain the health of the soldiers to minimise the risk of problems during military campaigns. Ultimately DDS aims to provide the best possible treatment for patients.