West Rand dentists use teddies to help their young patients
Community's assistance needed to ensure the success of this worthy cause
The young patient visiting the dentist does not have to be scared anymore, as a caring community member has decided to make the experience less terrifying.
Kobie Olivier has started an initiative which has been of tremendous help to the doctors and nurses in the dental section of a West Rand based hospital. “So many children who attend the dental clinic are, like most of us, dreadfully scared of dental treatment and refuse to sit still. They are also afraid of opening their mouths to allow the dentist to work on their teeth, which is an important part of ensuring healthy teeth,” she said.
In light of this, she approached a group of friends through church organisations and neighbours, and explained to them what she wanted to do. “I asked them if they would be willing to help me knit little stuffed animals that we could donate to the clinic. I provide the pattern, and, as soon as they have finished knitting, I sew on felt eyes, noses, whiskers and a variety of other items to make a collection of wonderful stuffed animals,” said Kobie.
She added that these toys are then donated to the dental clinic at the hospital, where they are then used to ‘bribe’ the young patients to sit still and open their mouths. During the whole procedure they are allowed to hug the cuddly toy, and, once treatment is over, they get to take their new friend home.
Kobie said, “We need dozens and dozens of these toys on a weekly basis to provide for the demand from the dental clinic, and would appreciate any help we can get from the community.”
Anyone who enjoys knitting and would love to contribute towards this very worthy cause, can contact Kobie by sending an email to Kobieolivier@googlemail.com or send a WhatsApp message to 082 681 2826.
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