The RETURN resources support a brief behavioural conversation designed to help patients engage with further dental care following an urgent dental visit.
In this section you will find the RETURN resources. There is also dedicated training available which provides more information.
What RETURN focuses on
RETURN addresses six common barriers to dental visiting:
- Cost
- Time
- “I don’t think to go when I’m not in pain”
- Trust
- Embarrassment
- Anxiety
These barriers are often interconnected and shaped by previous experiences, practical constraints, and emotional responses to dental care. The RETURN resources are designed to support non-judgemental conversations that acknowledge these realities.
RETURN was developed specifically with dental nurses in mind, reflecting their central role in patient communication and support. No specialist psychological training is required.
Delivery typically takes around 15 minutes.
What RETURN includes
RETURN is made up of a linked set of resources that support a structured but flexible conversation between dental team members and patients.
There is no script. The resources prompt open questions, active listening, and shared problem-solving, allowing the conversation to focus on the barrier that matters most to the patient.
RETURN includes:
Barrier videos
Six short videos, each featuring a real patient talking about their experience of one barrier to dental visiting, and how they worked to overcome it.
The videos should be:
- used during the urgent dental appointment to support discussion
- accessed by patients afterwards to reinforce
Barrier booklets
Each barrier booklet includes:
- patient stories and reflections
- motivational messages
- practical hints and tips to overcome the barrier
The booklets are designed to be worked through collaboratively during the appointment or taken away or viewed later.
To enlarge booklet full screen click this icon above
To enlarge booklet full screen click this icon above
To enlarge booklet full screen click this icon above
To enlarge booklet full screen click this icon above
To enlarge booklet full screen click this icon above
To enlarge booklet full screen click this icon above
Next Appointment Toolkit
The Next Appointment Toolkit booklet supports patients to plan practical next steps after their urgent visit.
It includes guidance on:
- preparing to make a follow-up appointment
- anticipating challenges
- planning how to attend and keep an appointment
To enlarge booklet full screen click this icon above
How the resources are used in practice
Delivery typically involves:
- identifying the patient’s main barrier to attending further care
- working through the relevant video and booklet together
- supporting the patient to set a goal and plan practical next steps
Below is a reflection from a dental nurse on their involvement in delivering the RETURN intervention:
Accessing and using the RETURN resources
The RETURN resources are available in different formats to support use across different settings. As well as the online resources available here, you can order hard copies of the materials and access training by using the links below.