A Westcountry dentist has been selected to be part of the team that will care for the teeth of athletes at the 2012 Olympic Games.

Chagford dentist Dr Sally-Anne Button was chosen after completing a rigorous selection process and will spend three weeks volunteering on the team.

She said: "I will be part of the team that undertakes the emergency cases so that the competitors can get back into the Games as soon as possible.

"Athletes, although in good shape physically, can sometimes neglect their teeth whilst training and competing, leading to problems such as abscesses and gum disease.

"One major problem is dehydration and rehydration. Athletes use sugary, acidic drinks for rapid rehydration and this can have a major impact on their oral health."

Sally, along with several other dentists, hygienists and nurses, will work 12-hour shifts to ensure there is always somebody available for any emergencies, should the athletes require treatment urgently.

Sally has previously worked in Australia with the Flying Doctors service practising dentistry in aboriginal communities.

The dentistry staff at the Olympics will provide care for an expected 700 dental-related incidents in a brand new dental clinic, funded by the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games (LOCOG).

Following the Games, Newham Primary Care Trust will run the dental clinic which will be left as a legacy for the local community.