Public Health Mobile Dental Unit Debuts to Help Preschoolers and Many More

This week Public Health launches its mobile dental program to provide oral health screenings to preschoolers. The much-anticipated mobile unit has three operatories fully equipped to serve clients for dental needs, much like at a dental office. The mobile unit is also equipped with an X-ray imaging device.  

“We are thrilled to roll out the MeckDental mobile unit for our residents. Too many kids in our community do not receive the recommended oral health care and that can hugely impact a child’s ability to learn, be present in school and can result in severe health consequences. A full-time dentist and a hygienist will staff the unit, and the mobile unit service will be transformational for our community,” said Raydiance Swanston, Mecklenburg County Public Health Pediatric Dental Clinic manager.

Public Health has been planning for the mobile dental unit for more than two years, but production was delayed due to the pandemic and supply chain issues.

“This is another demonstration of our commitment to expanding access to care and ensuring all our kids have an opportunity to be healthy,” said Dr. Raynard Washington, Mecklenburg County Public Health director. “So often the children we see for the first time have never been to a dentist. I am proud of our team for making the mobile dental unit a reality for our community and bringing oral health care to childcare centers, schools, community events, and wherever else we can park it.”

The MeckDental unit joins two other mobile units for the County,  improving access to healthcare for more residents.