North Shore Times (New Zealand)
Dentist gifts treatment
A Milford dental practice is offering low earners free dental work for one day only.
The Milford Family Dentist clinic is taking part in a nationwide campaign to provide care to low-income adults, with urgent dental work, who may not otherwise be able to afford it.
The campaign, spearheaded by the New Zealand Dental Association and Southern Cross Health Trust, has 50 different dental workers volunteering across the country.
The Milford practice will open to low-income patients on Friday, September 8. Community services card-holders will be eligible for a 30-minute to 40-minute appointment for treatments like fillings, restorations and extractions, and pain relief.
Two volunteers will take up to 35 patients on the day, with appointments available on a first come, first served basis.
It is the first time the Milford clinic has been involved with the initiative, which has been running for three years.
Owner Dr Kavendra Naidoo operates three other Auckland clinics that will also participate in the scheme.
‘‘To be able to volunteer is an excellent way to get to know all types of people,’’ he said.
Around 750 Kiwis are expected to benefit from the volunteer work, with 1700 people already having received treatment in previous years.
Those eligible must call 0800 373 376 for a spot.
‘‘To be able to volunteer is an excellent way to get to know all types of people.’’
Kavendra Naidoo