Dentaid will support vulnerable groups in London this week as it hits the streets of the capital to offer care.
The mobile clinic delivers free dental treatment to those who are rough sleeping or vulnerably housed.
Kicked off in partnership with Bupa Dental Care, the van visited Westminster on Wednesday and will return again on Friday 5 November.
Today it will park up in Camden to offer the free care to vulnerable groups in the north of the city.
This is the first time that Dentaid has offered the mobile service in London following increased pleas for help.
Spike in demand
Dentaid CEO Andy Evans said: ‘Our mobile clinic means that we can visit shelters, hostels and day centres to help reach people who find it hard to access dental care in a location where they feel safe and comfortable.
‘Sadly, demand for our services has increased significantly since the beginning of the pandemic, and we’re receiving more and more requests for help.
‘We’re delighted to be visiting London for the first time with the help of Bupa Dental Care. We’ve been busier than ever this year, having already completed more than 125 clinics across the country since January.’
Important service
All three clinics are staffed by clinical and administrative volunteers from Bupa Dental Care. They will offer check-ups and treatments as well as toothbrushing and dietary advice.
Dr Neil Sikka is chief dental officer for Bupa UK Insurance and chair of the Bupa Foundation Dental Community Committee.
‘This is such an important service and helps us reach those who need our support most,’ he said.
‘It’s a great opportunity to give something back, and having the skills to help reduce people’s pain and suffering is a privilege. It’s no surprise that our team are so keen to give up their time to help.’
Free mouthwash
Dentaid has also worked hard to distribute free bottles of mouthwash to patients, with help from Cleancert Hygiene (CHL).
CHL will donate a bottle to Dentaid’s clinics for every mouthwash bought by dental professionals throughout November and December.
The Oralwize rinse – which is alcohol free – can be used for endodontic and periodontal treatment, as well as dry sockets. Dentaid will distribute the bottles during their clinics at soup kitchens, night shelters and hostels.
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