A CHARITY has announced the launch of its ninth mobile dental unit in Weston-super-Mare.

Dentaid The Dental Charity is now operating in Weston, near Salisbury Terrace and the Sovereign shopping centre, thanks to the support of The Health Lottery, with a mobile dental surgery.

This outreach will benefit diverse groups such as people experiencing homelessness, abuse survivors, cancer patients, fishing communities, families living in poverty, and those battling addiction.

Jill Harding, communications manager at Dentaid, said: "Dentaid's mobile dental units are a lifeline for many, providing essential care to those who need it most.

"This new unit, supported by The Health Lottery, will allow us to reach even more people in Weston-super-Mare and beyond, offering vital services that can make a real difference in their lives.”

Carly Troullis, of the Health Lottery, said: "We are incredibly proud to support Dentaid with this initiative.

"The work they do is truly inspiring, and we are committed to helping them deliver much-needed dental care to vulnerable communities.

“This partnership reflects our ongoing dedication to improving health and well-being across the country."

Since its inception, over £130 million has been raised through The Health Lottery for various health and wellbeing causes across Great Britain.

This donation facilitated the refurbishment, stocking, and preparation of Dentaid’s new unit.

Additionally, The Health Lottery will support monthly dental clinics in Weston-super-Mare throughout the summer.

This new mobile unit enables volunteer dentists and dental nurses to deliver a wide range of services, including oral cancer screenings, dental health advice, cleanings, fillings, and extractions.

Due to the increasing demand for Dentaid’s services, the charity has expanded its fleet of mobile dental units, bolstered by significant support from the dental industry and its supporters.

This year, Dentaid will conduct nearly 1000 charity dental clinics across the UK, a significant increase from 422 clinics last year.

Dental problems are prevalent among homeless individuals and can hinder their efforts to escape poverty and addiction.

A complex set of interlinked factors exacerbates the problem: lack of self-care while experiencing substance misuse and mental health issues, poor diet, tobacco smoking, and limited access to dental products.

Research indicates that 70 per cent of homeless people suffer from toothache, and 15 per cent have attempted to extract their own teeth.

Patients supported by Dentaid face numerous practical, emotional, and mental barriers to accessing care.

The challenges of homelessness make it difficult to keep appointments, and many patients struggle with anxiety or have limited opportunities to prioritise oral health.

Some have also suffered dental damage due to their diet, addiction, violence, or abuse.

Dentaid’s mobile dental units visit soup kitchens, hostels, night shelters, and emergency accommodations, with volunteer dental professionals providing screening, advice, and dental care.

By offering regular services, they aim to break down barriers and give our vulnerable patients the best possible chance of accessing dental care.