DO NOT DELETE Header for posts on website image template - 2026-07-22T153414.904

Joni – volunteer dental nurse

My first volunteering session with Dentaid wasn’t just another day of training; it became one of the most meaningful experiences of my career to date. As a trainee dental nurse, I had never volunteered before, and I approached the day with a mixture of excitement, curiosity, and nerves. Having only experienced dentistry within a general practice, I was stepping into a completely unfamiliar environment, unsure of what the day would bring. But by the time I had left, those nerves had disappeared, replaced by a deep sense of pride, gratitude, and purpose. Caring for patients who may otherwise have struggled to access dental treatment, reminded me why I chose a career in dentistry and opened my eyes to the profound difference compassionate, accessible care can make to someone’s life.

During the clinic, we worked alongside Bristol Drugs Project, an organisation that supports people affected by drug and alcohol use. Many of the people they support face barriers to accessing routine dental care, making services like Dentaid essential in ensuring they receive the treatment they need.

Each patient had their own unique story, and it was a privilege to be part of a team that could help relieve pain, restore confidence, and provide care in a welcoming, judgement-free environment. The greatest reward for me was seeing the positive difference that compassionate dental care could make to our patients. The profound impact on the patients’ overall health, wellbeing, and self-esteem, was highlighted throughout the whole session.

This experience helped me grow not only as a dental professional but also as an individual with personal goals and passions. It strengthened my confidence, developed my communication skills, and introduced me to the world of community dentistry. Working with Dentaid has inspired me to continue working within local communities, helping to provide accessible care to everyone regardless of their circumstances. Most importantly, it brought me back to the reason I pursued a career in dental nursing to begin with- to care for people wholeheartedly and help make a positive difference to their lives.

I would encourage anyone in the dental profession, whether a nurse or clinician, to volunteer if the opportunity arises. The skills you gain are invaluable, but the greatest reward is knowing you’ve helped someone who may otherwise have gone without the care they so desperately needed. Dentaid’s dedication to improving access to dental care is truly inspiring, and the support they gave me as a volunteer made the experience unforgettable. It was an experience I’ll always reflect on with pride, and one that has strengthened my ambition to use my skills to improve access to dental care for those who need it most.