Over the years I have sometimes been asked “What happens if you get sick Doc?” A good question. Fortunately, I have dodged that bullet in my career with the AAD.
Until now.
Relax, nothing lethal, but annoying. A tooth.
As part of our pre-deployment, we are required to get a dentist to review our teeth and remediated as required. But no one can give a 100% guarantee.
This review is essential because about 5-10% of medical consults on tour are dental in origin.
Spooky music required as we drift back in time….
It was smoko on a wet, overcast day in Macca. I was chowing down with George beside me.
"Oh look what I found in my fruit bread. I wonder if Arvid (chef) has lost something.” A quick sweep of the mouth.
“Oh heck it’s mine.”
My poor old heavily amalgamated (filled) tooth was fine but one of the remaining pillars of tooth had calved off in a true Antarctic iceberg moment.
Back to the future.
“Curly would you please have a crack at spack filling my tooth.”
“Not a problem Doc.” Without a moment’s hesitation. I mean its bread and butter for your average plumber.
So Curly, bon vivant & raconteur can now add emergency dentist to the letters after his name.
He did a great job and this customer is very happy.
Now about the bill…
Dr Mal Vernon
Antarctic Medical Practitioner