Dr Jalal saw a problem and thought he’d do something about it.
The access to dental services in the Australian outback is grossly deficient. So he bought a mobile dental clinic and took it to the bush! By bringing the dental clinic to the people he is removing their logistical problem and bringing the dentistry to them. It’s a small start but he has a big vision.
It’s a well established fact that the state of oral health in the Australian outback leaves a lot to be desired. As stated in Australia’s National Oral Health Plan 2015-2024, the rate of tooth decay in children has risen since the 1990s. Sadly, the number of tooth decay in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander 15 year-olds is double that of the rest of the population.
30% of Australia’s population lives in regional and remote areas. There is a constant challenge to good oral health in these communities because of:
– fewer dental practitioners
– a lack of fluoridated water
– higher costs for healthy food and oral hygiene products
– inadequate clinical infrastructure
In 2014 there were 63,000 hospitalisations in Australia due to preventable dental diseases.
The numbers speak for themselves.
We are actively seeking to expand this service. If you would like to help in anyway, please contact Dr Khan directly by clicking here
We are deeply grateful for all donations we receive as it helps us achieve our ultimate goal of closing the gap between dentistry and the bush. ABC News recently covered Dr Jalal’s work in the outback.
The Dental Station is looking for new team members.
If you are a Dentist, Dental Assistant/Hygienist/Therapist and are interested in working on the truck (regularly or as a locum) please get in touch via the form below.
Want the Dental Truck to come to your town? Please get in touch via the form below.
Fill in the form and we will be in contact with you shortly.