A new dental practice in the city has opened its doors by offering free oral health check-ups.
Viva Dental Clinics in Queens Road opened on June 9 by providing 50 free full dental examinations.
The community initiative was designed to help tackle access to dental treatments and educate people on the importance of oral health.
READ MORE: Viva Dental to offer free check-ups at new Norwich clinic
Discussing the success of the opening day, Zoe Read said: “We had so many happy patients who had a free check up with us so I think it's something we may do more of, especially with children.
"Going forward we look to hold more events for the community and educate the public on good oral health.
“We want to change the public perception of private dentistry and combine high end private dentistry with being involved in the community.
"We also want to use our clinic space as a positive trip to the dentist, we have a warm and relaxed environment which doesn't have the clinical look to it.
"We think this will really help with those who are nervous or scared of visiting the dentist.
“We didn't want the space to be too clinical, but more warm and friendly. It looks a little different to most of the dental clinics in the area.”
The dental surgery is staffed by seven professionals, including an in-house oral surgeon and oral health educator.
READ MORE: Norfolk dental school call backed by county councillors
The opening comes amid ongoing concerns over access to NHS dental care in the region due to Norfolk's 'dental desert'.
Data from the Local Government Association shows Norfolk and Waveney has among some of the lowest numbers of dentists per 10,000 people in the country.
Last week, Labour promised to create 100,000 extra dental appointments for children in a bid to clear backlogs in England.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel