STAFF at a Deganwy dental practice have received specialist training to help them deal with patients suffering from dementia.

Three dentists, a hygienist and dental nurses attended the dementia friend's information session at the Deganwy Dental Practice last Wednesday.

A spokesperson for the practice said: "We have become increasingly aware of the prevalence of dementia and feel we need a better understanding of the needs of patients suffering from it, so we can improve our service and make their experience as relaxed as possible."

Dementia Friendly Champion and County Cllr Julie Fallon led the session, she said: "This is the first session I've run with a dental practice and hope other dentists, or for that matter any community groups, who feel they could benefit from a session, to come forward.

"It is all about giving people a better understanding of dementia, how best to cope with it and understand the different types of dementia, and from that be effective in helping sufferers

"The big thing is that there is more to to the person than dementia and it is possible to live well with dementia.

Dementia is a progressive condition and can be divided into three stages, each of which demand sensitive and careful treatment. In some cases, if the individual does not have the decision making capacity, family, professionals and other carers can be involved in the process as long as these decisions are in the person's best interests.

For further information about dementia friendly sessions please contact: Cllr. Julie Fallon, Conwy County Borough Council, email: cllr.julie.fallon@conwy.gov.uk