There’s no (bus) stopping us!

Amidst the challenges posed by limited access to dentistry, individuals at risk, including those who are homeless or in temporary accommodation, face heightened difficulties in receiving essential oral and dental care. Recognising this critical need, Emma Anastasi, director of Diamond Dental Staff, shared an opportunity for an oral health educator (dental nurse, dental hygienist, dental therapist, or dentist) to work with the Driving For Change charity on October 27. Eager to contribute, I promptly reached out to Henrietta MacEwen, the head of partnerships, and together, we embraced the prospect of working hand-in-hand.

Arriving early on the designated day, I acquainted myself with Michelle, the service manager, who provided a tour of the mobile clinic bus and briefed me on the resources available for service users. Additionally, I was introduced to a barber offering grooming services on the bus. Setting up my oral health education (OHE) table, equipped with toothbrushes, Colgate toothpaste samples, local dental practice leaflets, and a tooth model for practical demonstrations, I also familiarised myself with the referral procedure for dental emergencies.