By patricia.ngevao@awokonewspaper.sl
Freetown, SIERRA LEONE – In a significant community outreach effort, Caritas Freetown, in partnership with the Spanish medical and dental organization ‘Dental Coop,’ has successfully provided free dental care to residents of Susan’s Bay and Culvert communities.
The initiative, which took place at the Susan’s Bay Community Centre, served over 400 individuals, including men, women, and children. During the event, more than 200 patients underwent various dental procedures, including multiple tooth extractions.
Ishmael Alfred Charles, Acting Executive Director of Caritas Freetown, underscored the initiative’s dual purpose: addressing immediate dental needs and raising awareness about oral hygiene. Charles pointed out the prevalent neglect of dental health in these communities and stressed the importance of continued education on preventive care, such as effective brushing techniques.
Spanish dental surgeon Cristian Gracia, a member of the Dental Coop team, praised the mission’s altruistic nature. He highlighted the challenges faced while working in Susan’s Bay but affirmed the team’s commitment to maintaining high professional standards despite the difficult conditions.
Beneficiary Fatmata Kanu expressed her heartfelt thanks for the free services. Reflecting on her recent experience, she noted that she had paid SLe 550 for a tooth extraction just two weeks prior, a substantial expense for her. She valued both the free treatment and the preventative advice provided.
With the average cost of a single tooth extraction in Freetown being approximately SLe350, the free dental services offered by Caritas Freetown and Dental Coop have significantly eased the financial burden for residents and contributed to improved dental health in the communities.
This initiative not only provided critical dental care but also reinforced the importance of ongoing oral health education and support in underserved areas. PSN/2/9/2024
