Following the Smile Direct Club closure, Del Kahya questions why the compassion and support shown to patients has not been extended to the former employees.
Following Smile Direct Club’s recent announcement, the dental community’s response has been notably uplifting.
The support extended by both dental professionals and major aligner companies – offering reduced lab fees and reduced treatment fees to aid Smile Direct Club’s patients – reveals a collaborative approach in confronting adversity. Recognising the substantial impact of social media in dentistry and leveraging it for mutual benefit appears to be a pragmatic, strategic move.
Uncertainty and concern
Beneath the surface, however, a quieter yet equally significant narrative unfolds—one that sheds light on the untold experiences of former Smile Direct Club staff. These individuals, some of whom relocated their lives for promising positions in London or may have been with the company for years, share stories that paint a stark and concerning picture.
The abrupt closures left dedicated professionals – such as nurses, receptionists, and practice managers – suddenly unemployed. Their struggle remains largely unnoticed, prompting questions about the lack of attention given to their plight.
The timing of these events – amidst the holiday season – intensifies the uncertainty faced by these professionals. The absence of widespread support or opportunities from dental practices, despite ongoing recruitment shortages, raises questions. Why aren’t dental practices seizing the opportunity to provide hope and employment during this festive period?
Pivotal moment for solidarity
Smile Direct’s expansive presence, with hundreds of retail locations spanning the UK, US, Canada, and Australia, employed a reported workforce of around 5,400 individuals. As dental professionals, uniting to support some of these UK-based staff members could serve as a valuable solution.
This collective effort could not only assist those affected but also potentially alleviate the recruitment crisis plaguing the industry.
The urgency lies in the dental community extending compassionate support to these affected individuals. By fostering a collaborative approach, there exists an opportunity not only to help, but also to fortify the industry’s resilience. This pivotal moment demands solidarity, proactive measures, and genuine support to navigate these challenging times.
The stories of these Smile Direct Club professionals remind us how fragile the dental industry can be. It is a reminder for everyone in the community to come together. We need to do more than just solve the current problems; we should create strong support systems that help the industry handle tough times in the future.
Read more on Smile Direct Club:
- Smile Direct Club was a ‘disaster waiting to happen’
- What’s next for Smile Direct Club patients?
- ‘Nothing short of scandalous’ – the dental industry reacts to Smile Direct Club closure
- Smile Direct Club cases overseen by ‘just five UK dentists’
- Smile Direct Club files for bankruptcy – what does this mean for dentistry?
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