Author: Dr. Carol Somerville President of BACD
There are many dental charities doing exceptional things around the world. As the President of the BACD, I have selected Bridge2Aid as my chosen charity this year; a wonderful organisation that aims to reduce the disparity in dental access for people in Tanzania. Their work isn’t just worth a read – it’s worth our support.
Bridge2Aid first came to my attention many years ago through the BACD. I know colleagues who participated in a fundraising climb of Mount Kilimanjaro for the charity, and then, last year, I found about another Bridge2Aid expedition: cycling 330km from Kilimanjaro to the Ngorongoro Crater. I got involved and completed it in earlier this year – our group of 20 raised £80,000, shattering our target, to fund a new dental clinic.
Tanzania has approximately 600 dentists, most of whom are based in the cities, to provide care for nearly 70 million people. The focal point of Bridge2Aid is training dental therapists with more advanced skills; upscaling them so more rural communities can receive dental treatments. This is done with the support of local agencies and the donations given to Bridge2Aid.
Following the completion of the cycling challenge, I was able to visit the new dental clinic and see its success. Whilst basic in design, with extension cables and bits of tape scattered around to keep it going, the clinic had not compromised on effectiveness or sanitisation, with equipment donations from UK dental companies helping to provide excellent treatments. Able to treat patients quickly and efficiently, it was a fantastic feeling to see what happens when we put our minds together.
There are lots of ways in which we, as a profession, can help bridge the divide in international dental care – you just need to find the charity that resonates with you. This could be supporting wider members of the dental team or suppliers, or finding organisations that enable you to become an educator and train others, or to visit areas and deliver life-changing treatments in-person.
A lot of dentists are in a position to give. For Bridge2Aid, becoming a Unity partner is an excellent way to bring more dental care opportunities to Tanzania. This involves an annual commitment of £250 a month (£3,000 a year) and goes towards the training of a dental therapist. 200-300,000 potential patients can be seen each year for every new dental therapist, so the impact is immediate and long-lasting. Fundraising opportunities such as the cycling challenge are unforgettable experiences too, building a strong sense of community. These aren’t always abroad either – this June there will be a Bridge2Aid charity bike ride in Glastonbury that you can get involved with!
Looking ahead, Bridge2Aid will continue to expand outwards. The focus will pivot from treatment to the importance of prevention and education; to stop problems before they present themselves. Bridge2Aid is a fantastic entry point for those wanting to give back. Afterall, the thrill of giving lasts a lifetime.
Email Shaenna Loughnane shaenna@bridge2aid.org to become a Unity partner today.
