Davidson County Dentists Providing Dental Care to Patients with Medicaid Only

Davidson County Health Department has announced that it will permanently close its dental clinic on Friday. The facility had been part of the Davidson Medical Ministries and Davidson Health Services found on Salisbury Street.

According to the statement released by the Davidson County Health Department, it was their privilege to provide dental services for children with Health Choice and Medicaid for the last 15 years but at present, other local dental offices have been able to provide more efficient and wider range of services for children and adults. That’s why they are closing the dental clinic.

According to records from the state, five Davidson County dentists are now providing dental care to patients with Medicaid coverage. Two dentists are accepting patients with Health Choice plans.

Just last fall, East Carolina University has opened a dental care facility on its campus of Davidson County Community College. Construction for the new training ground is on track for a September opening.

The collaboration between the University and the community college was made to provide dental students with practical skills and at the same time provide access to dental care for low income residents of the community.

The center is built near interstate 85 and on the community college’s main campus in Thomasville. It is one of ten dental service learning centers planned in the state. Access to dental care has been an issue in Davidson County and other rural counties. It is one of the areas that require a lot of help.

North Carolina has been behind most states when it comes to access to dental care, especially for children. The new service center will fill a need that has been met by hospital emergency departments. Most people without dental coverage turn to emergency departments for help with their dental care and most hospitals issue temporary treatment by prescribing pain medication and antibiotics.

Photo by baskyes – flickr