Refugees who have been given a new life in New Zealand are missing out on the dental care they're entitled to, according to new research.
Despite suffering multiple issues with his teeth, it took Syrian refugee Johnny Foda more than two years to find the right help.
"I was worried about my tooth because I was losing them one by another," he said.
According to a new study he's not alone. In fact Dental student Danah Toubat has treated many refugees in dire need.
"Patients that have needed full mouth extractions, clearances and then dentures fitted and fillings, just very complex issues."
The study surveyed 62 adult Syrian refugees resettled in Dunedin, the majority describing their oral health as very poor.
Associate Professor Jonathan Broadbent, a University of Otago researcher said some of them have reported they are embarrassed to smile.
"And indeed I have seen people put their hands up to their mouths when they're speaking. That's not something people in New Zealand should have to do. I feel we should be able to do better."
Researchers were concerned to find more than 70 per cent of the Syrian refugees surveyed had dental pain, and less than 40 per cent had a dental check-up within the 18 months since their arrival.
All refugees spend six weeks at the Mangere refugee settlement centre in Auckland where they should undergo full health and dental screening.
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