Spotlight on public health dentistry For more than 15 years, dentist Dr Terry Ng has helped many patients across Northern Sydney Local Health District (NSLHD). His career has spanned clinics at Northern
“Looking after vulnerable patients gives you a lot of job satisfaction,” he says. “You know you’re helping people who really need it.” The clinic also treats young people and children under 18. “Some families are not aware that their children are eligible for this free service. There is no income restriction for those who live in the district and have Medicare.” During this time with the NSLHD, Terry has also worked well beyond general dentistry. This includes assisting oral surgeons in hospital operating theatres, helping train new staff, providing teleconsultation to specialists and much more. “In the public system, you have the opportunity to be exposed to many different areas apart from chair-side work,” he said.
Beaches, Ryde and Royal North Shore Hospital before he relocated to Hornsby three years ago. Dentistry, he said, is a great job. “It’s fascinating to study. It helps people and it is a very rewarding career. You can see what you achieve with your own hands,” he explains. “It’s a very well-respected profession.” Terry said that public dentistry provides care for people who might otherwise struggle to access treatment, including pensioners, people on low incomes, refugees and those living with a variety of health conditions. His work highlights the important role that public dentists play in the
community. There are currently four oral health services across the district staffed with 18 dentists. “It’s a good thing to help under served or disadvantaged people,” he said. “A lot of them cannot afford a private dentist so they come to us. Public dentistry provides a safety net.” The Hornsby clinic is busy all year round. “We want to see as many clients as possible.” While the treatment involves basic dental care such as examinations, fillings, x rays, extraction, denture assessment and more, it can be complex. For instance, many clients have significant treatment needs, and providing care for them can be challenging. Some vulnerable patients neglect their oral hygiene over a period of time and require a lot of work. Some special needs patients may need treatment in hospital under general anaesthetic.
Dr Terry Ng
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