MONTICELLO — Children and young adults with disabilities often struggle to access dental care due to communication barriers and a shortage of providers who accept their insurance.
To help bridge that gap, the NYU College of Dentistry recently brought its fifth pop-up clinic to the Center for Discovery in Monticello, offering free exams, X-rays, and sealants.
The clinic uses sensory-friendly tools such as weighted blankets, therapeutic toys, and headphones to create a calming environment for patients who may experience anxiety during dental visits.
Eddy Rosenbaum, director of NYU’s Global Outreach program, said the initiative aims to make dental visits more approachable. “We’re helping patients become more comfortable with the dentist,” he said. “A lot of people have dental fear and anxiety, and we’re breaking down those barriers with a friendly, accessible approach.”
Pediatric dental resident Dr. Lindsey Chou said the experience benefits both patients and trainees. “Working with diverse patients allows me to adapt to each person’s needs,” she said. “It’s incredibly valuable to provide care in a way that truly supports every individual.”
The NYU pop-up model continues to expand across New York, improving access for underserved groups—especially those whose dental insurance coverage limits their care options.