A new, solar-powered mobile dental unit launched by Dentaid The Dental Charity is the first of its kind.

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Thanks to funding from Bupa Foundation, the lower-emission dental surgery on wheels will be used to provide care for people experiencing homelessness, poverty, harm and abuse.

The vehicle has been specially built to provide Dentaid with a smaller, lighter mobile unit with less environmental impact. Rather than using a generator, the dental equipment is powered by solar panels on the roof backed up by batteries that charge as the vehicle is driven.

As a result, the charity will be able to deliver care in rural communities, Central London and other city centres while generating a lower carbon footprint and being ULEZ and Clean Air Zone compliant. The vehicle will be more versatile and enable the charity to reach new locations as demand for its dental clinics continues to rise.

In addition to funding the specially adapted vehicle and light-weight equipment onboard, Bupa Foundation also provided funding for Dentaid to return to Northern Ireland and Central London. Clinics in Northern Ireland commenced on the week of 11 November when the dental unit visited Simon Community services in Lisburn, Armagh, Coleraine and Belfast, with volunteers providing care for people who are rough sleeping or vulnerably housed. In London the vehicle will be used to deliver life-changing dental treatment for people supported by Single Homeless Project in January and March next year.

The new surgery is the tenth in Dentaid's fleet and is the most cost-effective, versatile and environmentally friendly dental unit on the road. Dental professionals onboard will perform extractions, fillings, scale and polish, x-rays and oral cancer screening, in addition to giving dental health advice.

Kirsten Hewitt, Director of Homelessness Services for Simon Community said: ‘Our partnership with Dentaid is incredibly valuable, as it enables us to provide vital oral care and treatment for clients across our services in Northern Ireland. Oral health is a fundamental part of our overall well-being, yet it's often inaccessible for those experiencing homelessness. Through working with Dentaid, we are bridging this gap and offering critical care that not only improves physical health but also restores confidence and dignity. The ability to smile without pain or discomfort can be life-changing, and we are immensely grateful for Dentaid's commitment to providing these vital services.'