Carroll Dental Clinic Reopens for Medicaid Patients After Long Hiatus!
Exciting news, Carroll County residents! The Carroll County Health Department’s Dental Clinic is back in action after a nearly year-long hiatus, bringing smiles and relief to families in the area. Serving children from 6 months to 18 years, as well as pregnant and postpartum women, and select young adults aged 18-21 on Medicaid, this clinic is all set to transform dental health for those who need it most.
Meet Dr. Alva Smith from Reisterstown, the clinic’s new superhero in scrubs. After just three weeks on the job, she’s already making waves in the lives of underserved populations. “The mouth is the gateway to everything,” Dr. Smith passionately states. “Good health, self-esteem, freedom from pain, and confidence in your smile are crucial. Many in our community faced barriers to health insurance before, but now we’re here to change that narrative. Our goal? To ensure everyone is healthy!”
For those unfamiliar, Medicaid is a government healthcare program designed to support low-income individuals. In Maryland, eligible Medicaid members enjoy fantastic benefits with no premiums, deductibles, copays, or annual limits, making dental care accessible to those who need it most.
The Carroll County Dental Clinic proudly serves residents enrolled in the Maryland Healthy Smiles program. If you hold a red-and-white Medicaid card, you’re in! The clinic offers an array of services, including dental exams, cleanings, digital X-rays, sealants, fluoride treatments, nitrous oxide (the giggle gas!), extractions, composite fillings, and general restorative services, ensuring comprehensive oral care for every patient.
Many loyal patients went without essential dental care during the clinic’s closure, but Dr. Smith is determined to reconnect with them. “We’re rebuilding,” she emphasizes. “We’re catching up on cleanings and education while planning further treatment to reach even more kids and families.” With a legacy of providing dental care for over 20 years, the health department is committed to improving community health.
Finding a full-time dentist can be a challenge, especially when private practices often offer higher pay. However, Dr. Smith finds fulfillment in her role, stating that “money isn’t the motivator; caring for the community is what drives us.” With a competitive salary range of $109,247 – $169,695, the clinic also offers benefits and work-life balance that aren’t commonly found in private practice.
After the retirement of the previous dentist, the clinic faced a brief closure before Dr. Smith stepped in. She’s dedicated to using her skills to uplift underserved children and make a lasting impact on their health.
Nikia Rivers, the new dental office manager who joined the team in October, shares Dr. Smith’s passion for community service. Having transitioned from a private practice, she appreciates the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those in need. “In private practice, it’s all about the insurance,” Rivers explains. “Here, I can genuinely give back and help our community.” With her expertise in scheduling, Rivers ensures that emergency patients receive timely care, keeping the clinic running smoothly.
Despite being fully booked for the next two weeks, cancellations happen daily, so it’s still worth calling! Dr. Smith typically sees about nine patients a day, allocating an hour to each appointment to provide thorough, quality care.
Parents rave about Dr. Smith’s dedication, noting how she takes the time to explain dental issues to them and their children. As Lisa Pollard notes, “Having that extra time for education greatly enhances prevention efforts, making a significant difference in overall health.”
Creating a welcoming and positive experience for children at the dentist is crucial. As Kunz states, “The first dental experiences can shape a child’s future attitudes toward oral care.” Dr. Smith wholeheartedly agrees, emphasizing the need for children to leave their first visits feeling empowered and cared for. Without proper dental care, children risk tooth decay, gum disease, and even low self-esteem.
Ready to book an appointment? The Carroll County Health Department’s clinic is located at 290 S. Center St., Westminster. Give them a call at 410-876-4918 to schedule your visit.
For aspiring dental professionals, there are numerous grants available to support students aiming to provide dental care for low-income communities. Check out the details on Maryland’s website: health.maryland.gov/mchrc/pages/grantee_dental.aspx.
Have a news tip? Contact Thomas Goodwin Smith at [email protected].
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