GRAND FALLS-WINDSOR – A mobile dental clinic is changing the landscape of oral healthcare in central Newfoundland.
Heather-Marie Curlew, a dedicated dental hygienist, has established Dental Hygiene Express Newfoundland, a service aimed at providing professional dental hygiene directly to underserved rural communities.
Curlew’s mobile clinic operates seven days a week and has quickly gained popularity. “The response has been overwhelming, much more than I initially expected,” Curlew said in an interview on CBC Radio’s Newfoundland Morning. She mentioned that the demand is so high that she is considering hiring additional hygienists to help meet the needs of her patients.
Personalized Care on Wheels
The mobile clinic primarily targets individuals who struggle to access routine dental cleanings. Curlew highlights the benefit of personalized care in this setup: “It’s just me and the patient in the van, creating a more one-on-one experience,” she explained. Patients can receive cleanings even if they cannot visit their regular dentist and are free to return to their usual hygienist later if they choose.
During appointments, Curlew offers tailored recommendations based on each patient’s specific needs. For more complex dental issues, such as cavities or fillings, she advises patients to consult a dentist.
Meeting Rural Healthcare Needs
Curlew’s background informs her understanding of the challenges faced by families in rural areas when it comes to accessing healthcare services, including dental care. Growing up in Leading Tickles, a small community in Notre Dame Bay, she recognizes that long travel distances often make dental care a lower priority for families, especially those with children.
“When you have to travel long distances for groceries and medical appointments, dental care often takes a backseat,” she noted.
Her experiences motivated her to create a solution for residents in and around Grand Falls-Windsor, where dental services can be limited.
From Concept to Reality
Curlew’s journey began in 2018 while working at a dental practice in Fort McMurray, Alberta. Balancing her career with childcare responsibilities led her to partner with Dental Hygiene Express. This collaboration allowed her to explore the flexibility and impact of mobile dental care.
Upon returning to Newfoundland, Curlew was determined to bring this model home. With Dental Hygiene Express Newfoundland, patients can book appointments online, via email, or through text messages. The fully equipped mobile unit meets patients at their homes or workplaces and features a dental chair, entertainment options like Netflix and Disney+, and advanced equipment comparable to traditional dental offices.
Plans for Expansion
Curlew’s clinic is set for growth as she plans to integrate a fully operational X-ray machine within the next year. She is also open to expanding her service area: “While I primarily serve areas within an hour to an hour and 15 minutes of Grand Falls-Windsor, I’m willing to travel further based on demand,” she said.
This patient-centered approach ensures that communities with limited access to dental hygiene services are not overlooked.
Transforming Rural Healthcare
Curlew’s initiative showcases the significant benefits of mobile healthcare. By addressing logistical barriers and providing flexible, high-quality care, she is making dental hygiene accessible and convenient for all residents.
As mobile clinics continue to evolve and expand their reach, they play a crucial role in bridging the gap between urban and rural healthcare disparities. With dedicated professionals like Curlew leading the way, the future of oral healthcare in rural communities looks brighter than ever.
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