Something to smile about

More than 100 people queued for free dental care at Dental on Raffles on Saturday. PHOTO / DUNCAN BROWN

A local dentist held an open day on Saturday, as a way to give back to the community.

Dentist on Raffles principal dentist Gary Winter realised local people struggled to afford general dental care. So, on Saturday, from 8am to 5pm, the dentist offered free emergency dental care to the public.

More than 100 people came through the door, engaging in the clinic's first community day. A total of 34 fillings were done and 105 extractions were performed.

Mr Winter said the day was a great success and "one of the most gratifying and humbling experiences in my 38-year career."

People came from all over to get the free treatment and some had to queue for eight hours. Not once did they complain and the atmosphere was great said Mr Winter.

"There was high-fiving, laughter, waving and fun," describing the scene similar to a party atmosphere.

The patients' response was thrilling, as they were extremely appreciative and had good will. Mr Winter said one man who was supposed to be the last patient at 5pm gave up his position for a young woman behind him. He had been waiting all day but still sacrificed his position, "surrendering his need for hers".

The event was brought about to support those who lack resources to pay for treatment and was a way to help out in the community. "It is not in the makeup of the business to ignore such problems."

The event was extremely successful and is something that will definitely happen again. He said at the end of the day the staff were "buzzy and on such a high" as they got as much out of it as anyone.