That's the idea behind a new door-to-door dental care service which got up and running yesterday.

It is the brainchild of Bermudian dental surgeon Dr. John Dickinson.

Concerned about old folk unable to visit the dentist, he splashed out $63,000 on a van and equipment.

Yesterday he took to the streets for the first time with dentist Dr. Ronda James, who works at his practice on Point Finger Road.

They treated eight seniors at Ocean Court -- the Warwick condominium complex.

The visit thrilled Ocean Court co-ordinator and physiotherapist Mrs. Jennifer Southern, who said: "It's an absolutely fantastic idea.

"It can be very disruptive or tiring for older people to go to the dentist, and this takes away the hassle. I totally support it.'' Dr. Dickinson said his idea meant any type of dental care could be carried out outside his practice.

Crowning, filling, and extractions, for instance, could be done in the comfort of someone's home.

"All we require is somewhere to plug up and we are away!'' said Dr.

Dickinson.

He estimated there were up to 400 seniors who could benefit from the Thursday service.

"We call them shut-ins. Many develop problems because they simply don't visit the dentist.'' Dr. Dickinson was keen to point out his idea was targeted at the needy -- and was not meant to be used as a convenience.

"We question very carefully anyone who wants to use it. I would also emphasise it is not a commercial venture.'' Dr. Dickinson said he hoped to eventually offer the service several days a week.

JUST VAN-DERFUL -- Dentists Dr. John Dickinson and Dr. Ronda James share the weight of equipment after their mobile dental unit hit the road yesterday.