Fishersville, Va. — The Augusta Regional Dental Clinic has expanded services for patients with sensory sensitivities, behavioral challenges and physical disabilities since becoming an accredited Center for Inclusive Dentistry (CID) one year ago.
The nonprofit clinic, based in Augusta County, has treated more than 750 patients with special oral-health needs during that time. Staff completed over 400 hours of specialized training in the past 12 months to better serve people with autism, Down syndrome, dementia, Alzheimer’s, mobility issues and other developmental or cognitive conditions.
Clinic leaders also built a sensory-friendly, accessible space to reduce barriers to care. The program has partnered with more than 25 nonprofit organizations, schools and caregivers to reach patients and families in the region.
“Becoming a Center for Inclusive Dentistry means more than just a certification — it’s a commitment to making sure every smile belongs,” said Sophie Parson, executive director of the Augusta Regional Dental Clinic.
Parson said the CID designation has eased a long-standing access problem. Before the program, some patients traveled to Richmond for basic dental care and often required general anesthesia. The local program now offers a dental home where families feel their loved ones are understood and treated with dignity.
The initiative is supported by Delta Dental of Virginia and the Virginia Department of Health. The clinic provides care to roughly 5,500 patients annually; about 82% of those served are covered by Medicaid.