A dental clinic focused on helping those most in need is now able to serve more residents in Southwest Virginia. The Appalachian Highlands Community Dental Center held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its newly renovated and expanded clinic on Friday.
The $1.69 million expansion added 14 dental treatment rooms, expanded the sterilization room, and built a new laboratory area to provide patients with a better oral care experience. The center is committed to providing affordable dental services to underserved and uninsured families in the area.
Scott Miller, a doctor at the center, recalled that when he first served as a volunteer at the clinic at the Royal Army Hospital, he saw patients waiting in tents or trailers for long periods of time for tooth extractions and cleanings.
Miller emphasized, “No one should have to suffer. People in Southwest Virginia deserve a fixed clinic from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, instead of waiting for a mobile program to come to their door every year.”
He also said that the clinic not only solves oral health problems, but also helps patients regain confidence and promotes the development of the local workforce.
The new clinic is located at Room 100, 616 Campus Avenue, and residents in need are welcome to come for treatment.