As World Smile Day takes place on Friday 2 October, we are celebrating the dedicated volunteers behind the Hong Kong St John Ambulance Brigade Dental Services, whose work helps bring essential dental care to underprivileged and special needs patients.
A smile can brighten a person’s day, build confidence and create a moment of connection. The dental services of the Hong Kong St John Ambulance Brigade can be traced back to 1950, reflecting a long-standing commitment to supporting the community. Since its early beginnings as the “Dental Penetration Squad”, the service has developed into a dedicated dental facility providing free dental services to those in need.
The service began as a small team providing essential dental care to underprivileged groups living in remote areas of Hong Kong. Over the years, it has grown into a comprehensive dental service supported by a dedicated team of volunteer dentists and supporting staff.
Today, the Dental Clinic operates at the headquarters of the Hong Kong St John Ambulance, where it is equipped with modern and essential facilities and supported by a digital record keeping system. While the facilities have evolved, the purpose of the service remains the same: helping people who may otherwise face difficulties accessing dental care.
The Dental Command provides a range of dental services to underprivileged and special needs patients. These include dental examinations and treatments, regular check ups, professional mechanical plaque removal, restorations, extractions and fluoride treatments.
The work also extends beyond the dental clinic through outreach programmes. Dental education and oral health promotion activities are held from time to time at public housing estates and residential care homes for people with disabilities and older people. Where possible, preventive treatments are provided on site, helping to bring care directly into the community.
The Dental Command has also organised special initiatives, including Operation Smile and the Special Smile Project. These projects provide preventive oral care to children, older people and other vulnerable groups, helping to promote better oral health and encouraging people to take care of their smiles.
Volunteers are the backbone of the dental services provided by the Hong Kong St John Ambulance Brigade. Their dedication helps ensure that the clinic can continue providing high quality care to people in need.
The commitment of these volunteers is particularly evident through the outreach services. They are willing to travel long distances and work under challenging conditions to reach patients who need their support. Their time, skills and compassion make an important contribution to the communities they serve.
At the heart of every visit is the same goal. To provide care, support and an opportunity for people to maintain a healthier smile.
