TAFE SA’s Dental Program has been working with the City of Playford to raise awareness and improve accessibility to oral health care for adults with disability.

The Dental Hygiene Project 2025 has involved students from the Advanced Diploma of Oral Health (Dental Hygiene) at TAFE SA’s Gilles Plains Campus and members of the Playford Friends Group, an NDIS-funded program supporting adults with an intellectual disability to participate in community activities and services.

The students, who are completing a Special Needs Dentistry subject as part of their course, have expanded their knowledge and practical skills through a placement opportunity with City of Playford and members of the Playford Friends Group.

The project has involved two visits to the Playford Friends Group at Smithfield Plains, where students and lecturers have shared knowledge about oral health care in a casual forum.

On the second visit, students provided oral health assessments, preventive education and, where appropriate, fluoride varnish applications to willing group members.

Cyndi Neuzerling, Quality Coordinator - Disability Inclusion, says the City of Playford is proud to be part of a meaningful collaboration with TAFE SA’s Dental Program.

“For many people with intellectual disability, accessing dental care isn’t just about booking an appointment - it’s about overcoming a whole range of barriers, from transport and cost to trust and understanding. That’s why this partnership has been so powerful,” Cyndi says.

“What started with hesitation from some participants has grown into something really fantastic.

“Through these visits and the genuine relationship building, we’ve seen trust develop, confidence grow, and participation increase in ways we couldn’t have imagined at the start.

“It’s a reminder that when we take the time to listen, connect, and work together, we can create truly inclusive spaces where everyone feels safe and supported.”

Students Anne and Sumbal said the project provided valuable experience and was an interesting way to reinforce the information they were learning in the classroom.

Anne: “I’ve worked in the dental industry for 10 years and I don’t tend to see people with disability so this subject has been interesting. I’ve learnt about inclusive language and become more aware of access needs, and I’ve enjoyed spending time with members of the Playford Friends Group.”

Sumbal: “It’s my first experience with clients with a disability and I feel our course training has prepared us really well in terms of the kinds of things to ask clients and the barriers they may experience. They tend to be labelled ‘difficult’ but they’re not, and it’s our job to make the experience better for everyone.”

The collaboration has also produced a visual guide to Visiting the Dentist which aims to reduce anxiety about a clinic appointment.

Through this project, it is hoped that members of the Playford Friends Group and the wider community will feel comfortable visiting the campus clinic at Gilles Plains where students provide free oral health care services under the strict supervision of a qualified dental practitioner.