Dr Colette Bridgman MBE has been appointed Wales’ new Chief Dental Officer, the Welsh Government has announced.
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
Dr Bridgman has been a Consultant in Dental Public Health in the North West of England since 2003, and strategic dental lead for Greater Manchester since 2013. She has also held appointments in Public Health England and the Office of the Deputy Chief Dental Officer for NHS England.
She replaces David Thomas, who retired from the role earlier this year.
Dr Bridgman’s start date will be confirmed in due course.
The Chief Dental Officer is responsible for providing independent professional advice relating to dental services and oral health matters in Wales.
Announcing the appointment, Dr Chris Jones, the acting Chief Medical Officer for Wales, said:
“I’m very pleased to confirm the appointment of Dr Colette Bridgman MBE as the new Chief Dental Officer for Wales.
“Her appointment will help bring a fresh perspective to developing outstanding and sustainable primary care services in Wales and in particular to the leadership of oral health and dental service improvement.”
Dr Colette Bridgman MBE said:
‘I am delighted to be appointed as the next Chief Dental Officer for Wales. I want to build on achievements to date and look forward to working with the talented teams in Wales.
“It is a privilege to be given this opportunity to meet the challenges that exist and lead efforts to improve oral health and dental services as part of an integrated approach for a healthier Wales.”