McDONALD COUNTY, Mo. — A state-wide initiative is delivering much-needed dental care directly to those who need it most — from inside a specially equipped RV.
Known as the Elks Mobile Dental Clinic, the program is currently stationed in McDonald County. The mobile clinic offers both preventive and restorative dental services and is staffed by a licensed dentist and a registered dental hygienist.
Backed by the Missouri Elks Association and operated in partnership with University Health Lakewood Medical Center in Lee’s Summit, the clinic travels throughout Missouri year-round. Its mission is to reach areas where dental services are limited or nonexistent.
The clinic primarily serves people with intellectual or developmental disabilities, uninsured veterans, and individuals without access to affordable dental care.
“We’re here for the people who often fall through the cracks — those without insurance or a regular dentist,” said Stephanie Scott, a registered dental hygienist and the clinic’s program coordinator. “If you’ve ever had a severe toothache, you know how urgent dental care can be. We’re here to provide help where help is hard to find.”
The mobile clinic will remain at the McDonald County Health Department through Friday, July 25, continuing its mission to bring essential dental care to the community.