Mobile Dental Unit – Dental Health Program

Program Overview

The Carteret County Health Department operates a dental program that provides educational, preventive and clinical treatment services.

The school-based component, “Miles of Smiles,” operates a mobile dental unit, 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 PTO’s, Head Start parent meetings, health fairs and “Gives Kids a Smile.”

Who Qualifies?

• Children through age 17, enrolled in NC Medicaid or Health Choice
• While at each location, priority given to eligible children from that school
• Pre-school children and students from other schools may be seen by appointment
• Dental emergencies are always a priority
• Parents sign permission and health history forms and return to child’s teacher

How Does It Work?

• 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 about scheduling for children not normally visited by the dental unit, contact the Dental Program Coordinator at 252.241.4492.

Who Staffs the Mobile Dental Unit?

• Jerry L. Batten, DDS, MPH, Public Health Dentist
• Amanda R. Willis, Dental Assistant
• Carol L. Willis, Program Coordinator

What Basic Services are Offered?

• Dental exams
• X-rays
• Cleaning/fluoride
• Dental sealants
• Restoration such as composite fillings used for more natural results and more comfortable treatment
• For more information on tooth fillings and materials:
  http://www.ada.org/public/topics/fillings.asp#types
• Extractions
• Pulpotomy

What Other Services are Provided?

• Dental emergencies
• Specialized minor surgical procedures
• Referrals for services beyond the normal scope of the Mobile Dental Unit
• Individualized dental hygiene instruction

Our Mobile Dental Unit Provides "Miles of Smiles!"

• State-of-the-art facility travels to county elementary schools on a rotating basis
• Visits last six to eight weeks
• 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 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

For More Information

The American Dental Association can provide answers to many questions about your teeth, preventive care, treatments and up to date information on products and recalls. Visit http://www.ada.org.