Frustrations in delivering a dental service to the north coast of Labrador

The delivery of a dental service to 4,000 people by 2-3 dentists, appears straight forward, in theory. It proves to be a different story in reality. Having prior knowledge of these problems, may be of help to dentists who wish to work here. One must experience the situation for oneself, however. There are certainly a "more than normal" amount of problems to confront on a daily basis. Accommodation and travel arrangements, seem to be the most pressing issues which need improvement. The usual work span of a dentist is between one and three years. The amount of work done by each dentist can vary on a daily basis. Native traditions can be such that, patients do not show up at the dental clinic until too late. Violence, suicides, and alcohol or solvent and drug abuse, as is being seen today, can "burn out" any health worker. Equipment needs to be upgraded in some of the Stations, like Hopedale and Davis Inlet. Salaries need revising.