This week saw the Dentaid mobile dental service travel to five different locations on the Isle of Wight offering much-needed dental services to those in need.
News OnTheWight sat down at the beginning of the week with Andy Evans, CEO of Dentaid, to discuss the charity’s efforts in providing dental care to those unable to access it in the UK.
Who are Dentaid?
Dentaid, established over seven years ago and operating in the UK since around 2015, focuses on assisting individuals struggling with accessing dental care due to various reasons such as homelessness, anxiety, or being part of a foodbank.
Their services are specialised and aimed at those who are eligible for free dentistry or who have been referred by partner charities.
Patient numbers and referral processes
Andy outlined the expected number of patients to be treated through Dentaid’s mobile units, mentioning that the focus is on alleviating pain.
The number of patients seen can vary, with approximately 14 to 16 patients being treated per day depending on their needs.
Referrals come from local charities and the community, with some patients also directed through 111 for those eligible for free dentistry.
Expansion of services across the Isle of Wight
Dentaid is expanding its services across the Isle of Wight, with one-a -month clinics in Ryde, Cowes, Freshwater, Sandown and Newport.
This is in response to the overwhelming need for dental care. It’s a temporary fix to help ease capacity in dental provision on the Island.
With an 18-month contract in place, Dentaid aims to continue providing care on a monthly basis, adjusting for seasonal variations.
Nationwide and international efforts
Beyond the Isle of Wight, Dentaid operates across the UK with 11 mobile units and extends its services to developing countries.
Their work spans Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and all over England, with international missions to Africa and other developing regions to provide dental care to those who are most in need.
Listen in
You can hear Andy talking about the Dentaid charity and their involvement on the Island by clicking on the play button below (unfortunately after we sat down to record the interview the space suddenly become noisy, so excuse the background noise). You can pause, jump back ten seconds or jump forward 30 seconds.
