Chris Stedile
Castlegar News
In celebration of Heart Month and Valentine’s Day, Clean Between in Castlegar joined several registered dental hygienists in BC in giving no cost, preventive dental hygiene services.
On Saturday, February 7, as part of The Gift from the Heart, many services were offered free of charge, including oral cancer screenings, as part of a national campaign. This is the fourth year Clean Between has participated in the event.
Denise Pawlyshyn, registered dental hygienist and owner of Clean Between said, “You get an exam, teeth, gums, cancer screening, polish, fluoride, scaling and then everyone gets a gift bag customized just for them.”
The Gift from the Heart event gives dental hygienists the opportunity to reach out to their communities and help members of the public who may be financially unable to afford oral care or have difficulty accessing dental hygiene services.
Pawlyshyn said she offered services from 10 a.m. — 3 p.m. and was able to see nine people over the course of the day.
Several of the visitors were vocal about their positive experience.
“I’m so glad something like this is available in our community. The whole experience felt so comfortable and I will come back,” said one patient.
Another happy attendee said, “I had an excellent pain free experience with wonderful results. Thank you for the friendly, good humored atmosphere.”
Other areas participating, included Kelowna, Nanaimo and Vancouver.
“We know that many British Columbians don’t receive regular dental care, and may wait until they are suffering from tooth pain before making an appointment,” said Brenda Morris, Chair of the British Columbia Dental Hygienists Association (BCDHA). The BCDHA is a strong supporter of the campaign.
Morris continued, “Evidence shows however, that serious diseases such as cancer, diabetes and heart disease can be detected when oral health care providers such as registered dental hygienists and dentists are able to conduct a thorough oral examination.”
The Gift from the Heart campaign should take place around the same time next year.