31 May 2021
For more than 65 years, dentists have been volunteering at Cerebral Palsy Alliance (CPA).
Dr Robert Watson is Chairman of the Volunteer dentists and has been volunteering for over 34 years. He heads a team of dedicated dentists who provide free dental care to ensure the Oral Health needs of people with Cerebral Palsy are addressed.
A new generation of volunteer dentists is needed to continue this important work. When you volunteer in CPA’s Dental Clinic you will be supported by this team. As a volunteer dentist you will be required to perform routine dentistry at the clinic in Allambie Heights.
Your generosity can make a difference. Simple procedures like scale and prophylaxis can, as you know, enhance the oral health of a patient. For people with Cerebral Palsy, cleaning their teeth can be difficult. Clients and their carers are enormously grateful to have this service.
Our Dental Clinic operates thanks to the generosity of volunteer dentists, dental hygienists and dental nurses. The clinic is managed by Louise Hayward, a dental assistant who has been supporting CPA’s volunteer dentists for over a decade. Louise is experienced in helping volunteer dentists engage with patients, to understand their specific needs.
CPA provides family-centred therapies, life skills programs, equipment, training and support for people living with disabilities across more than 110 sites throughout NSW and the ACT, but the state-of-the-art Dental Clinic at Allambie Heights is unique.
Purpose built, the Clinic is designed to be accessible for people who require wheelchairs. There are two fully equipped surgeries, with modern facilities and a separate sterilization room. A Cerec machine, donated by Sirona Dental Systems, gives immediate access to inlays, onlays and crowns.
A number of other dental companies also generously donate materials and dental supplies. This helps to keep day to day costs down. For many of the clinic’s patients, this dental service is the only resource available for the level of dental care they require.
When you volunteer your dentistry expertise at CPA, your commitment is completely flexible. CPA welcomes dentists who can offer their time one morning a month, every few months or just a couple of times a year. New volunteers are given the opportunity to observe at the Clinic. They are mentored by the team and given ongoing support.
CPA’s volunteer dentists experience a deep sense of satisfaction when they offer their time to help people with Cerebral Palsy. Knowing they have supported a patient who may not have otherwise received care, is rewarding. If you would like to learn more about volunteering in the Cerebral Alliance Dental clinic, you can contact Diana Piper:
P: 02 9975 8740
E: dpiper@cerebralplasy.org.au
Learn more about CPA: cerebralpalsy.org.au
