One of Dentaid the Dental Charity’s ambassadors is using her status as a Ms Great Britain finalist to highlight awareness of oral health education and help those experiencing health inequalities get access to dental care.
Dental hygienist Rafina O’Brien, who is based at Colosseum Dental in Yeovil in Somerset, has been named as one of the finalists for the prestigious event in Leicester on October 17th. She is the only dental professional to make it this far in her category.
Rafina regularly volunteers on Dentaid’s mobile dental clinics to offer free dental care to patients experiencing issues such as homelessness, abuse and poverty.
She is using her platform to shine a light on the often-overlooked topic of women’s oral health. Issues with gum and bone health linked to hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy and menopause can lead to serious health changes which not all women might be aware of.
Rafina also works hard as an oral health educator, regularly visiting schools to teach children about the importance of keeping their teeth and gums healthy.
Rafina said: “I believe oral health is about much more than just teeth. It’s about confidence, wellbeing, dignity, and overall health — and everyone deserves access to that, no matter their background.
“I want to use this opportunity not just to raise awareness, but to give something back – to make oral health accessible, compassionate, and stigma-free for everyone, regardless of background or circumstance.”
Last year Rafina took part in three gruelling ultramarathons in the space of just a few weeks, raising hundreds of pounds in support of Dentaid.
After starting with the Jurassic Coast Ultra Marathon in June, she embarked on the Cotswold Challenge in June and the Peak District Challenge a few weeks afterwards, covering 275 kilometres over rough and tricky terrain.
Over the next few months leading up to the Ms Great Britain finals, Rafina will be visiting events across the country, appearing on podcasts and using her social media profiles to promote the importance of oral health in both women and children.
“Rafina and Dentaid share a common goal of making sure that those who are most facing difficulties in other areas of their lives can take control of their dental health”, said Jill Harding, Head of Communications and Fundraising at Dentaid the Dental Charity.
“We are proud to work alongside Rafina to make sure everyone gets access to the vital dental care and education they need. We’ll all be cheering her on in the finals later this year!”
