Seoul National University Dental Hospital Provides Free Mobile Dental Treatment to Elderly

Korea: Seoul National University Dental Hospital organized an initiative called the “Mobile Dental Service for Elderly Living Alone.” On Friday, the 26th of May, the service was conducted at the Junglim Comprehensive Social Welfare Center in Jung-gu, Seoul. The primary objective of this initiative was to deliver essential dental care to vulnerable elderly individuals who live alone and are in need of such services. 

The initiative is jointly organized by Seoul National University Dental Hospital, Mirae Asset Life Insurance, and the Ministry of Health and Welfare‘s Comprehensive Support Center for Elderly Living Alone. 

Diverse Range of Specialists

A dedicated team of 20 participants, including Professor Young-dan Cho from the Department of Periodontics at Seoul National University Dental Hospital, took part in the event. 

The mobile dental service was equipped with a range of specialists from various fields, including periodontics, prosthodontics, and oral and maxillofacial surgery. This diverse expertise allowed the team to offer a comprehensive set of treatments. 

In addition to routine check-ups, the services encompassed extractions, scaling, cavity treatments, and denture repairs. This holistic approach ensured convenience and addressed the specific dental needs of the elderly patients.

Accessible Dental for the Elderly

On the designated day, starting from 10 a.m., a total of 57 elderly individuals visited the Mobile Dental Service to receive treatment. The turnout highlighted the pressing need for accessible dental care within the elderly community.

Professor Young-dan Cho, who led the volunteer group, expressed his satisfaction in being able to assist vulnerable groups, who face heightened challenges in accessing dental treatment. He shared, “As a member of Seoul National University Dental Hospital, I will actively participate in various activities that support marginalized neighbors in the future.”

Seoul National University Dental Hospital’s Mission

Director Yong-mu Lee emphasized the hospital’s mission in creating a robust safety net for the oral health of the population. He highlighted the significance of initiatives like the Mobile Dental Service, stating, “Through activities like today’s, Seoul National University Dental Hospital aims to become a pillar of oral health for socially marginalized groups.” He further expressed the hospital’s determination to fulfill its social responsibility as one of the leading institutions in Korean public oral healthcare.

Looking ahead, the “Mobile Dental Service for Elderly Living Alone” plans to conduct five more sessions until November. The organisers expect that this will increase the impact of the program and benefit more vulnerable individuals in need of dental care.