FREE DENTAL CHECKS FOR UNPAID CARERS

A GOLD Coast dentist is providing free dental check-ups to unpaid carers across the region.

Maven Dental Group is inviting carers who support family members and friends with a disability, mental illness, chronic condition and terminal illness to join them on October 20 for Maven Dental Day.

Unpaid carers are among the majority of Australians who do not receive proper dental care, putting them at serious risk of heart disease, dementia and respiratory problems.

Maven Dental practices across the Gold Coast will partner with Carers Australia to offer unpaid caregivers free dental exams, teeth cleans and X-rays.

Full-time carer Carley Cain was one of 165 carers who received free dental care at last year’s event. Carley is a full-time carer for her husband who suffered a major spinal injury, and also homeschools her autistic daughter.

“I don't tend to take time for myself or book regular dentist visits for check-ups because they break the budget,” she said.

“It’s difficult as I’m the sole caregiver but we try to stay positive and make the best of the situation.

“Opportunities like this seem small to others but it makes my life a bit easier.”

Dentist Hannah Lock said she was proud to be a part of the initiative.

“I think one of the things we miss in our busy lives is a sense of community and helping others, so to share in that community spirit is refreshing,” she said.