Monday 26th September 2011 - Published by Robert Trigg - Communications Executive
Dental Foundation Gives Brighton Something to Smile About
It’s easy to take a smile for granted; yet a dentist from Brighton has made it his mission to ensure this simple gesture doesn’t have to cost the earth.
When Donald Rodriguez (72) was faced with the prospect of losing his teeth earlier this year, Dr. Bruno Silva of the Brighton Implant Clinic stepped in to perform a vital procedure as an act of charity, through The Smile Foundation.
Founded by Dr. Silva, The Smile Foundation provides dental implant treatment to those in urgent need of surgery, but without the means to cover its costs.
“Basically I've always wanted to give something back for the support I’ve had in my life. The Smile Foundation is a way for me to use my dental skills to help those less fortunate than myself", said Dr. Silva.
In 2006, Mr Rodriguez suffered a severe stroke, causing the paralysis of his left side. His dental health suffered enormously as he lost the ability to brush his teeth, resulting in serious gum disease and infection. For both mental and physical wellbeing, the dental implant procedure was essential to his continued health.
Though competitively priced at the Brighton Implant Clinic*, Mr Rodriguez’s means fell short of the £12,500 needed for the procedure. After having lost so much already, he was faced with the real and terrifying prospect of losing his teeth and smile.
Dr. Silva saw Donald as an ideal candidate for The Smile Foundation, and so volunteered to remove the infected teeth of the upper and lower jaw, replacing them with new, strong dental implants.
“Mr Rodriguez was honestly one of the chattiest people around. He is one of the nicest people I’ve come across, and it was an absolute pleasure to help him out in his hour of need”, he said.
The treatment was completed in July this year, just six months after Mr Rodriguez approached the clinic with his problem.
Having regained the power to express simple enjoyment and warmth, Mr Rodriguez said; “I thank the Brighton Implant Clinic for their kindness and generosity in giving me my smile back. This has changed my life completely. Words can’t describe how grateful I am."
Brighton Implant Clinic specialises in dental implants and other dentistry; including tooth whitening, cosmetic work, crowns, bridges and veneers.
Donald Rodriguez's teeth, before and after the Smile Foundation came to his aid
