The Miami County Dental Clinic (MCDC) has announced the addition of Dr. Steve Ritzi to its Traveling Smiles program.
With 36 years of experience, Dr. Ritzi’s expertise will help broaden the program’s reach, offering expanded dental services to more children across the county.
Traveling Smiles is a school-based dental initiative that brings essential preventive and restorative care directly to students.
Using mobile dental equipment, the program provides services such as exams, cleanings, X-rays, sealants, and restorative treatments right at the schools, reducing the barriers that might prevent students from accessing care.
Launched in 2012, Traveling Smiles has steadily grown, with an increasing number of schools and families enrolling children each year. The addition of Dr. Ritzi, alongside Dr. Keira Ankrom, means the team can now offer care up to four days a week, greatly improving access to dental services for local students.
The program is managed by Coordinator Gail Newhouse, with support from Coordinator Assistant Ellie Mancini, Dental Assistant Paige Burrell, and Dental Hygienist Angie Reynolds. Together, they schedule school visits and provide comprehensive dental services to enrolled students.
“We are excited to welcome Dr. Ritzi to the team,” said Stephanie Waller, Executive Director of MCDC. “His experience enhances our ability to help children stay healthy, confident, and prepared to learn.”
MCDC is also in the process of hiring an additional dental assistant to further support the program’s expansion.