Finding the Right Dentist for Special Needs: Your Essential Guide

(WJAR) — Meet Nolan, a remarkable young man with special needs who’s on a quest for something vital: dental care. His journey is not just a personal battle; it’s a cry for help that resonates with families across the nation.

In case you missed it, we previously shared how Nolan’s family and dedicated teachers have been tirelessly advocating for him.

The clock is ticking, and the struggle has spanned months.

Alison Bologna, a passionate advocate, visited one of Rhode Island’s few facilities capable of meeting Nolan’s needs, uncovering the challenges families face in securing care.

His mother, Dana Gingerella, describes him as a “miracle” given all he’s endured. “He’s a strong boy,” she proudly declares.

At just 20 years old, Nolan has faced profound challenges since birth, and now he’s in dire need of dental care. Yet, for months, finding a dentist willing to help him has been nearly impossible.

When asked how many dental offices she has contacted in the last month alone, Dana’s response is swift: “At least 20.”

After meeting Nolan, Bologna journeyed to the Samuels Sinclair Dental Center in Providence, a hub of hope on the Rhode Island Hospital campus.

Dr. Elizabeth Benz, who works there, shares, “We see close to 20,000 patients annually, so it’s a bustling place.”

“That’s a staggering number, and you’re one of the few facilities in Rhode Island catering specifically to those with special needs, right?” Bologna inquires.

“That’s correct,” Dr. Benz confirms.

“I shared Nolan’s story of desperate need for tooth extractions. Is he the only one in this situation?” Bologna asks.

“Not at all. We receive nearly 100 calls a week from patients seeking our help,” Dr. Benz reveals.

So where does that leave patients like Nolan? Occasionally, the center has a few slots open. As luck would have it, when they met, Dr. Benz informed Bologna that phone lines would open soon for initial appointments.

Determined to help, Bologna reached out to Nolan’s family and teachers, and to ensure fair chances for all Rhode Islanders, she shared the news widely on social media.

“It must be heartbreaking to turn people away simply due to staffing limitations,” Bologna probes.

“It truly is. With limited capacity and a finite number of providers, we must make tough choices, and it crushes me,” Dr. Benz responds.

Dr. Steve Brown, chair of the American Dental Political Action Committee, highlights another layer to the issue: dentists in neighboring states often command higher salaries, complicating recruitment efforts. Add to that a shortage of facilities, and the problem intensifies.

What’s the solution? How can we widen access for our most vulnerable residents?

“We’ve already taken steps this year. Lawmakers approved a facility fee in the current budget,” Dr. Brown explains.

This legislative move is viewed as a significant win for Rhode Island, paving the way for better reimbursement from insurance companies.

“So, this means more space and ultimately more dentists available to provide care, correct?” Bologna clarifies.

“Exactly,” he affirms.

“In the grand scheme, what changes do you envision to prevent others from experiencing the same struggles as Nolan?” she asks.

“I envision a dedicated facility, an ambulatory surgical center exclusively for dental patients in this state,” Dr. Brown replies passionately.

Both Dr. Benz and Dr. Brown are championing this cause, fighting for a brighter future.

And there’s a silver lining: on July 1st, Nolan’s teacher successfully connected with the dental center!

Stay tuned for the next chapter, where we’ll reveal how Nolan finally secured his long-awaited dental appointment after years of waiting.