In the hands of the RFDS Oral Health team, a remote community space can become a dental clinic within hours.
Behind that transformation is an aircraft loaded with hundreds of kilograms of equipment, a dedicated team and a commitment to serving some of Australia’s most remote communities.
Through mobile oral health services, the RFDS team makes regular visits to communities across South Australia and the Northern Territory, often spending a week at a time in each location delivering everything from check-ups to emergency treatment.
As part of a recent collaboration with Laynhapuy Homelands Aboriginal Corporation, the RFDS Oral Health team has travelled to isolated communities in North East Arnhem Land.
RFDS Senior Dentist and Oral Health Program Manager Dr Nicolas Reid said these trips are an opportunity to connect with people, while providing safe and accessible oral health care.
“We know that oral health is deeply connected to overall health, wellbeing and cultural identity,” Dr Reid said.
"We often see older community members who have lived with dental pain or discomfort for far too long simply because services haven't been readily accessible. Being able to provide culturally safe care closer to home can make a significant difference to their health, wellbeing and confidence.”
In Dhalinybuy, located more than 1,000 kilometres from Darwin and often isolated by road during the wet season, community members welcomed access to oral health services.
One resident said, “I’m glad RFDS came over from down south to visit us in remote Dhalinybuy… It’s normally hard for us to see dentists. I’ve tried for three years.”
Another community member shared, “I was nervous, but they told a family member to sit with me and my procedure went well.”
A third added, “Please keep coming back.”
While emergency treatment is an important aspect of the Flying Doctor’s Oral Health Program, prevention, education and empowering people to take charge of their overall health and wellbeing is at the heart of the program.
“One of the most rewarding parts of our work is seeing children become excited about looking after their teeth. Simple conversations about brushing, drinking water and making healthy food choices can have a lasting impact on their health and confidence,” Dr Reid said.
Dr Reid is the co-author of research that is helping shape a better understanding of oral health for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Published in The Conversation, the article highlights the importance of culturally safe, holistic models of care that are designed in partnership with communities.
The RFDS Oral Health Program acknowledge support from Laynhapuy Homelands Aboriginal Corporation and the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing.
Learn more about the Flying Doctor.
