Dental Center of Northwest Ohio

Originally, the Mobile Services Division was established in 1986 through a United Way grant. The initial grant established the HomeBound/Senior Mobile Unit. Now, the Mobile Services Division is currently made up of the Smile Express Mobile Dental Center.

In March of 2006, The Smile Express Mobile Dental Center – which brings the dentist to the patient to establish a “dental-life-line connection" was added.

The Dental Center of NW Ohio has identified transportation as the number one issue influencing patients from seeking much needed dental care. Work schedules, childcare issues, distance, travel time, weather, bus schedules and frail health make it difficult for many adults, children, seniors, and their families to get to the dentist. The Smile Express Mobile Dental Center eliminates these barriers by bringing the dentist to the patient.

The Smile Express also provides an opportunity to offer oral health education to these same individuals who frequently have a low "dental I.Q." which is a very important part of this Smile Express Mobile Dental Center.

Every patient visiting the Smile Express will be educated to help them understand the importance of regular, ongoing oral health care. All patients receive a kit containing an appropriate toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, floss and educational materials with oral health instruction specific to his/her exam findings by an oral health educator. In addition, during the registration process and waiting times, oral health educational videos will be shown on the onboard video system.

The services provided by the professional full-time dental staff will include, but will not be limited to:

• cleanings (prophylaxis)
• diagnostic x-rays
• fluoride treatments
• sealants
• fillings
• pulpotomies
• root canals
• extractions
• making of full and complete: crowns, dentures, sport guards, bite guards, space maintainer, and thumb sucking appliances
• oral health education and instruction through printed educational material & videos