GRAND FALLS-WINDSOR: A dedicated dental hygienist is transforming oral healthcare in central Newfoundland by delivering services directly to rural communities. Heather-Marie Curlew, the founder and operator of Dental Hygiene Express Newfoundland, has launched a mobile dental clinic designed to make professional dental hygiene accessible to under-served areas.
Curlew's innovative clinic-on-wheels offers services seven days a week and has quickly gained momentum.
"The response has been overwhelming, much more than I initially expected," Curlew shared during an interview on CBC Radio’s Newfoundland Morning. "We’re so busy now that I’m considering bringing more hygienists on board."
Personalized and flexible dental hygiene care
The mobile clinic primarily serves patients who face challenges accessing routine dental cleanings. Curlew emphasizes the personalized care that the setup allows:
"It’s just me and the patient in the van, creating a more one-on-one experience," she explained. "Patients can receive cleanings even if they can't see their regular dentist. They’re free to return to their usual hygienist later if they prefer."
During appointments, Curlew provides professional recommendations tailored to each client’s needs. For more complex issues like cavities or fillings, she advises patients to consult a dentist at their discretion.
Addressing a pressing need in rural communities
Having grown up in Leading Tickles, a small community in Notre Dame Bay, Curlew understands the unique barriers rural families face when accessing healthcare, including dentistry.
"When you have to travel long distances for groceries and medical appointments, dental care often takes a backseat—especially for families with children," she said.
Her firsthand experience inspired her to offer a solution for residents in and around Grand Falls-Windsor, where dental services may not always be readily available.
From vision to reality
Curlew’s journey to launching her own mobile clinic began in 2018 while working at a dental practice in Fort McMurray, Alberta. Struggling to balance her career with childcare responsibilities, she joined forces with Dental Hygiene Express and discovered the flexibility and impact of mobile dental care.
When Curlew moved back to Newfoundland, she knew she wanted to bring this model home. With Dental Hygiene Express Newfoundland, appointments can now be booked online, via email, or through text. The fully-equipped van meets patients at their homes or workplaces, offering a dental chair, entertainment options like Netflix and Disney+, and advanced equipment similar to a traditional dental office.
Expanding services
Curlew's clinic is poised for growth, with plans to integrate a fully operational X-ray machine by the upcoming year. She is also exploring options to expand her reach:
"While I primarily serve areas within an hour to an hour and 15 minutes of Grand Falls-Windsor, I’m open to traveling further based on demand," she noted.
This patient-centered approach ensures communities with limited access to dental hygiene services are no longer left behind.
A smile for every mile
Curlew’s initiative exemplifies the transformative power of mobile healthcare. By eliminating logistical barriers and offering flexible, high-quality care, she is making dental hygiene accessible and convenient for all.