Irving, who is currently clinical director of public dental services, will provide strategic and clinical leadership across all areas of dentistry in NHS Lanarkshire. A key focus of the role will be to reduce oral health inequalities, helping to ensure that people across Lanarkshire can access dental services that meet their needs.

She will continue in her clinical role, providing specialist dental services with a particular focus on children, people requiring general anaesthetic, those affected by head and neck cancer and other vulnerable groups.

Irving said: ‘I take on this additional role building on the strength, commitment and expertise of a highly skilled dental workforce that delivers high‑quality, patient‑centred care across Lanarkshire.

‘My focus will be on strengthening collaboration across all areas of dentistry, supporting shared learning and innovation and working together to deliver accessible and sustainable services that meet the needs of our communities now and in the future.'

Professor Soumen Sengupta, chief officer for health and social care, added: ‘Geraldeen's appointment represents a significant strengthening of dental leadership within NHS Lanarkshire and reflects the critical importance of our dental and oral health workforce, whose professionalism, skill and dedication are central to delivering high‑quality care for our communities.

‘Her clinical expertise, leadership experience and strong commitment to reducing oral health inequalities will support our continued focus on delivering safe, effective and sustainable dental services for the people of Lanarkshire.'