DEAR SUN SPOTS: Regarding the April 23 letter about the shortage of dentists in the state. When I lived in New York state many years ago, dentists worked five days a week. Many had hours on Saturday or in the evenings because people did not get time off from work for these appointments.

When we came to Maine, we found that dentists only worked four days a week. If dentists went back to working five days a week (like many other professions), there would be a 20 percent increase in dental hours available.

Another remedy would be to license dental hygienists as separate practices so that you could go for a cleaning to one and she could refer you to a dentist if necessary. I go to a periodontist who is very good, but so is his hygienist. Usually she does the work and he comes in and says “good job.”

I think that the price would be tremendously less with just a hygienist’s service. I’m sure this is too simplistic, but it should be considered. — No Name, Wilton

ANSWER: The problem with the shortage of dentists in Maine is largely one of location. If you live in Southern Maine or one of the larger Maine cities, you probably won’t have too much trouble finding a dentist. But venture out in to the more rural areas, and things change.

The shortage in rural areas is particularly tough on older patients or those without a car, who might not have the wherewithal to get to a city for treatment.

Sun Spots still visits the large dental practice in Portland she started with as a resident there. They do have flexible hours, and her dentist works five days a week, although she is pretty sure Mr. Sun Spots’ three crowns helped pay for the dentist’s new boat. Perhaps your dentist just prefers to work less. Sun Spots would love to hear from dentists on the subject.

Dental hygienists are in fact able to be licensed for independent practice in the state of Maine. Dental hygienists with an associate degree may apply for an independent practice license after 5,000 clinical hours performed in a six-year period. A dental hygienist with a bachelor’s degree may apply for the licenses with less clinical experience — 2,000 hours over a four-year period. For more information, you can visit the State of Maine Board of Dental Examiner’s website.

With any luck, the new dental school planned for the University of New England will help alleviate the shortage of dentists. Now if there was just an easy way to pay for the care they provide!

[Editor’s Note: In the original publication of this column incorrectly stated that dental hygienists could not obtain independent practice licenses.]

DEAR SUN SPOTS: The Odd Fellows and Rebekahs’ Home of Maine is holding a fundraiser Friday and Saturday, Aug. 5 and 6. On Friday evening, Schooner Fare will be performing at 80 Caron Lane in Auburn. On Saturday, there will be a picnic under the tent beginning at 11:30 a.m.

We are looking for crafters to display their crafts at each of these functions. Tables will be available for $10 each. For more information, prices and/or reservations, please call 786-4616 and ask for Diane B. — Jane McCollister, [email protected]

This column is for you, our readers. It is for your questions and comments. There are only two rules: You must write to the column and sign your name (we won’t use it if you ask us not to). Please include your phone number. Letters will not be returned or answered by mail, and telephone calls will not be accepted. Your letters will appear as quickly as space allows. Address them to Sun Spots, P.O. Box 4400, Lewiston, ME 04243-4400. Inquiries can also be e-mailed to [email protected].