Dental Clinic
The Carteret County Health Department operates a dental program that provides educational, preventive, and clinical treatment services.
School-Based Component
The school-based component, “Miles of Smiles,” operates a mobile dental clinic, which travels to Carteret County elementary schools. Lightweight, portable equipment is used in the clinical outreach component to serve small, remote schools and Head Start centers. The dental program is also involved with community outreach not only in a clinical aspect but also with education. The program has been involved with such groups as school PTOs, Head Start parent meetings and health fairs.Who Qualifies
- Children ages 0-20, enrolled in NC Medicaid or Health Choice
- While at each location, priority given to eligible children from that school
- Preschool children and students from other schools may be seen by appointment
- Dental emergencies are always a priority
- Pregnant women with NC Medicaid
How It Works
- Parents sign permission and health history forms and return to child’s teacher
- Children are retrieved from their class, often with other classmates to receive their dental exam
- The program specializes in giving each child the best experience possible
- The needs and abilities of each child is carefully considered
- Most children are eager to return for care again and again
- For more information contact the Dental Program Coordinator at 252-241-4492
Staffing the Mobile Dental Unit
Mobile Dental Unit staff include:- Dr. Sara Grossi, DDS, Public Health Dentist
- Heather Honore, Dental Assistant
- Carol L. Willis, Program Coordinator
Basic Services Offered
- Dental exams
- Digital X-rays
- Cleaning / fluoride
- Dental sealants
- Fillings
- Extractions
- Pulpotomy
- Crowns
Other Services Provided
- Dental emergencies
- Referrals for services beyond the normal scope of the Mobile Dental Unit
- Individualized dental hygiene instruction
Mobile Dental Unit Attributes
Our Mobile Dental Unit provides:- State-of-the-art facility travels to county elementary schools on a rotating basis
- Unit features an office/reception area, two dental chairs, records, and lab areas
- Hookups at all elementary schools, except Atlantic Elementary and Harkers Island Elementary which are served with portable dental equipment
Maintaining Good Oral Health
The American Dental Association recommends the following for good oral hygiene:- Brush twice daily with an ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste, rinse after thirty minutes, and replace your toothbrush every three to four months
- Floss daily
- Eat a balanced diet and limit between-meal snacks
- Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral exams