Graham marks half a century in dentistry with mercy mission

A Leeds dentist is celebrating 50 years in the industry by giving back to both his local community and disaster-hit countries.

- by Alex Grant

Graham Temple, 72, from Hunslet, is preparing for his eighth trip abroad as he continues to help others in need despite notching half a century as a working dentist.

Graham is heading to Peru where he will visit remote villages near the city of Cusco.

Dental issues in Peru are prevalent, especially tooth decay and periodontal disease. These conditions are influenced by factors like high costs of dental care, limited access to services and poor oral hygiene practices.

Tooth decay in young children is a major concern, with Peru among the countries with the highest prevalence in South America.

He has previously spent time providing voluntary dental aid at Syrian refugee camps Lebanon and in Turkey, following the devastating earthquake of 2023.