The vast majority of Brisbane鈥檚 homeless who attended a recent dental screening were in urgent need of dental care, with many in pain organisers say.
The Oral Health Team, which included students and staff from The University of Queensland , held the screening to assess the dental status of Brisbane people who have no home or are at risk of homelessness, and connect them with vital services.
Held at Brisbane鈥檚 RNA Showgrounds on May 25, the Oral Health Team attracted hundreds of guests as part of the Brisbane City Council event, .
Dr Pauline Ford, Senior Lecturer in Dentistry and coordinator of the Oral Health Team said the screening offered students experience working with clients from various backgrounds, and insight into the oral health of the homeless.
鈥淥ver 90% required dental treatment, most urgently and some in significant pain,鈥� she said.
The team connected guests with free public dental services in their local area, and provided essential oral health care advice, and products donated by Oral B.
鈥淚t was humbling to talk with the guests and help them in some way. As healthcare professionals we may not be able to change their situation, but we can make it more bearable by offering the information and tools they require to manage their health,鈥� Dr Ford said.
鈥淭he people we screened were incredibly grateful, but I鈥檓 sure our team got as much out of being there.
鈥淚t鈥檚 so important our students gain varied experience and enter professional life equipped to interact with all members of the community.鈥�
Joining 国产探花 students and staff were members of the (Queensland Branch), the (Queensland Branch), and .
Among other services made available to guests were accommodation, employment, legal, Centrelink, Registrar General, and Medicare services.
The guests also had access to donated clothing, food, bedding, and toiletries.
Media: Dr Pauline Ford, 国产探花 School of Dentistry (07 3365 8085 or p.ford@uq.edu.au).
