Staff and students from the School of Dentistry celebrated the Roots to Dental programme, an initiative that offers Dentistry students important learning opportunities while also serving the Greater Manchester community.  

The programme has been delivered in collaboration with the Working Well scheme, a family of services that support people experiencing or at risk of long-term unemployment in Greater Manchester. 

Challenges of Dental Care in Manchester 

Before the development of Roots to Dental, clinical opportunities for Dentistry students were limited. Students noted that they found it difficult to gain useful experience, especially with complex procedures and long-term practice. 

While opportunities for student dentistry can be scarce, many people in Greater Manchester also find it difficult to access dental treatment.  

Dental health can be a significant aspect of employment challenges; Working Well leaders found that 15% of participants had at least one oral health issue, and up to 40% were unable to access affordable dental treatment.  

Reaping the Benefits on Both Sides 

Through Roots to Dental, almost 200 volunteers across the region have gained access to a free dental treatment programme lasting between 12-18 months. Care is delivered by undergraduate practitioners from the University of Manchester, overseen by qualified tutors.  

Thanks to the scheme, there have been plenty of positive outcomes for both students and patients. Students have increased opportunities for clinical practice, helping them improve their technical skills and soft skills in a real-world environment.  

For Working Well participants, access to proper dental care has helped to improve employment opportunities, alleviate physical pain from untreated issues, and boost self-confidence.  

Celebrating the Scheme’s Successes 

The Working Well: Roots to Dental celebration event saw staff, students, patients and other stakeholders come together to recognise the fantastic impact of the scheme so far. 

Led by Dr Tamsin Cooper, attendees heard from project leaders, student practitioners and volunteer patients. All attested to the huge positive impact of the project – from new leases of life for patients to essential training opportunities for students, the programme has strengthened ties between the School of Dentistry and the local Manchester community. 

Dr Vitalia Kinakh, Lead for Social Responsibility and Environmental Sustainability in Dentistry, said, “This initiative fosters social responsibility and community engagement among our students. Students develop key soft skills—communication, teamwork, and empathy—preparing them for future practice in a compassionate, community-focused way.” 

Looking to the Future 

Having run as an initial pilot scheme since July 2023, Roots to Dental is continuing to expand. The programme currently has 175 active patients receiving student-led dental treatment, with plans to increase this number through community outreach. 

The Roots in Dental project is an example of the Faculty’s commitment to Service Learning, where our students work with local communities to provide important services while expanding their skills and knowledge. To find out more about Service Learning in the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, visit the Service Learning webpage. 

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