A dental clinic in Guelph is sharpening its tools and opening its doors for anyone unable to afford dental treatment.
On May 14, Bisson Dentistry is guaranteeing free dental treatment for the first 40 people lined up outside their door from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. There is no online registration required.
Participants can choose from a complimentary filling, an extraction or a hygiene visit.
“Dr. Andre Bission who owns the business is very intentional with philanthropy, community, donations and charitable events because he truly feels that his business success is meaningless if he doesn’t give back to the community,” said Jennifer Dunsmoor, who is organizing the event.
Dunsmoor said the entire staff volunteers their time and skills for the free event.
“This is the one day a year, everyone is working and no one is earning a paycheck,” said Dunsmoor.
This will be Bisson Dentistry’s third free dental event. The clinic was unable to host an event last year because it was closed due to the pandemic.
She said as the pandemic continues, people may find themselves in greater financial struggles.
“It's more important for us as individuals and as business owners to step up,” said Dunsmoor.
Dunsmoor has worked in dentistry for 28 years in Guelph. She said when she plans it every year, she notices that it’s seniors who access the free event the most and not the people who we generally presume to be in an economic crisis.
“A lot of adults don’t have the resources economically to afford dental care,” said Dunsmoor adding that the reason this event is geared for individuals ages 18 and older is that the younger population is covered by programs like OHIP.
“At the end of the day, if you’re deciding between, mortgage, groceries, or a dental visit, we all know what the priorities are so for many adults, dentistry is neglected for years and years," said Dunsmoor.
She said the event has a large impact on the community because of the way one simple visit to the dentist can make a large change to their lives. She also added that the event is only possible because of the loyalty and support they’ve received from their customers for years.
