Sir, once vaccinated against COVID-19 individuals are given a card as proof of their vaccination. With some airlines planning to only allow passengers to book and board with their vaccination card, will this also serve as a one-way ticket towards dental care allowing patients to be treated without the need for AGP protocols, fallow time, hazmat suits and respirators to be worn? An essence of normality, allowing for a more secure future for the financial aspect of dental practices, as well as providing further opportunities for students or those in postgraduate training? From a public health and patient perspective, the provision of treatment in order to stabilise the oral health of the public can be continued.

It has been opined that those who refuse the vaccine should give up ventilators and intensive care if they catch coronavirus. This prompted me to consider the ethical and practical consequences of immunity passports. Will vaccinated dental patients be prioritised over those who have not been vaccinated? Patients have every right to decline the vaccine; however, is it morally justified to limit access to those opposed to the vaccine? What about those who are severely immunocompromised or individuals with severe allergies who are not currently eligible for the vaccine? There are currently no data on the safety of COVID-19 vaccines in pregnancy.

In hospitals, open bays mean that AGP treatment is prohibited. For students, this limits their exposure to certain complex treatments. Allowing vaccinated patients to be treated in these open bays with AGP treatments will expand their experience. Theatre capacity in dental hospitals is also capped, delaying treatment for the thousands on waiting lists. Increasing this capacity for vaccinated patients will reduce waiting times and consequentially increase dental access. Similarly, in primary care, increased access will help serve and reduce the great needs of our population.