The Mobile Dental Clinic | Providing Free Dental Care to Thousands of Underserved Children in Contra Costa County
The Mobile Dental Clinic provides low-income patients under 20 years old with basic dental care, oral care education, referrals to sedation dentistry, and help signing up for health insurance. The clinic’s patient population consists of many children without previous dental care. The staff most often treats cases of gingivitis and tooth decay, which can both cause serious issues if left untreated. The truck that houses the clinic was donated by Ronald McDonald House Charities, along with the equipment. John Muir Health, Brookside Community Health Center, La Clinica, Contra Costa Health Services collaborate to keep the clinic up and running four days a week.
We arrived at the Mobile Dental Clinic and met with Chris Grazzini, RN MS, the program manager. Ms. Grazzini discussed the clinic’s mission and history before taking us inside for a tour. Inside, we observed and discussed dental procedures and equipment with Alejandra Franco, a dental assistant, and the driver, Maynor Guerra. After, Dr. Valerie Lam talked to us about some challenges associated with working as a dentist in a mobile healthcare facility.
To learn more about the Mobile Dental Clinic visit the John Muir health website.
