Wilmington is set to provide free and low-cost dental services, especially for low-income residents. Here’s a summary of the available services and the challenges they face.
Available Free and Low-Cost Dental Services
St. Mary Health Center
Location: Wilmington, NC
Services: This center is the only surgical dental clinic in Wilmington offering free services to low-income patients, including extractions.
Current Situation: The center has received an eviction notice from the Basilica of St. Mary, creating uncertainty about its future. Despite this, staff are committed to serving patients until they find a new location or are forced to leave.
Med North Health Center
Location: 925 North 4th Street, Wilmington, NC
Phone: 910-343-0270
Services: This center provides low-cost dental care as part of a broader network of essential health services aimed at helping those in need.
Cape Fear Clinic
Location: 1605 Doctor’s Circle, Wilmington, NC
Phone: 910-343-8736
Services: The clinic offers low-cost dental services to individuals who may not be able to afford traditional care.
Your Community Dental
Overview: While not exclusively free, this clinic focuses on affordable dental care and uses advanced technology to meet a wide range of dental needs.
Challenges Facing Dental Services
The situation at St. Mary Health Center highlights significant challenges in providing free dental services in Wilmington.
The eviction notice raises concerns about the continuity of care for many patients who rely on these services for urgent dental needs. Executive Director Laura Vinson has emphasized the urgency of finding a new location while continuing to serve existing patients.
Vinson stated, “Our patients are really unique. They’re in pain. They’re emergency patients. If we abandon our patients, what does that say about the clinic?” She noted that since receiving the eviction notice, conditions at the center have worsened, with maintenance issues and locked facilities complicating their operations.
A volunteer at the center expressed disbelief at the eviction decision, saying, “I don’t think you have to be a Catholic to see that what’s going on here is wrong.” The center is currently working with an attorney to fight for more time to find a new home.
In addition to these ongoing challenges, an upcoming event aims to provide immediate relief. On December 14, CarolinasDentist will host a Free Dental Care Day at two locations in Wilmington. This event will offer essential dental services without requiring insurance or appointments.
Access to dental care is crucial for many people, especially during economic hardship. Untreated dental problems can lead to serious health issues. Events like Free Dental Care Day are vital for supporting community health and well-being.
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