The official opening of new dental care unit at Finetown clinic, Tuesday, 02 June was a significant milestone for the Gauteng Department of Health in addressing community challenges in relations to health system.
Finetown clinic was officially opened in July 2019, with dental unit not operational due to infrastructure problems and shortage of dental staff. Because of the growing demand for oral health services within the community, the district management has decided to open dental services at the clinic.
Dr Keetse Mameshoane, Oral Health Programme Manager emphasised the importance and benefits of opening unit in the clinic: “We will ease the community burden through providing accessible and free dental care services, preventing complex medical emergency, and improving overall quality of life,” she said.
Mameshoane continues that at Finetown clinic they have recognised the growing need for these services. “Following number of concerns raised by communities with regards to non-availability of dental care services in the clinic, we have taken proactive measures to address their frustration without fail. We are committed to expand the service as resources become available and will continue working towards providing comprehensive, accessible, and quality oral healthcare for all. To ensure the provision of these services, we have deployed 1 Dentist and 1 Dental Assistant to the clinic,” Mameshoane said.
Initially be available every Tuesday, from 08h00 to 16h00, with plans to increase the number of service days as demand and resources allow. Dental services that are currently offered include Oral examinations, Tooth extractions, Scaling and polishing, Dental fillings and Fissure sealants.
Stephen Kotwana was the first patient on the queue to access dental services in the clinic. “I am so delightful that dental services are now available at Finetown Clinic. Previously, we had to travel long distances and spend money on transport to access dental care. Having these services closer to our doorsteps will save us time and make it easier for our community, especially children and the elderly to receive the oral healthcare they need. We appreciate the efforts made to bring this important service to Finetown.”
