Elks Lodges improves smiles for people with developmental disabilities in central Missouri.
The Elks Mobile Dental Unit began providing free dental care to qualified clients Monday at Jefferson City Elks Lodge 513 901 Ellis Blvd.
Elks contacted sheltered workshops, such as Capital Projects in Jefferson City and Gateway Industries in Eldon, and informed them of the unit’s availability, said Cindy Smith, dental assistant on the vehicle.
Smith has made appointments for this week. She can be reached at 573-690-6003. Appointments are available Monday through Thursday. The hours depend on the services required.
Staff provide cleanings, x-rays, fillings and selective extractions in the mobile treatment room. The vehicle includes a wheelchair lift, which makes it accessible.
In addition to people with developmental disabilities, Elks will accept clients in financial distress who have found it impossible to receive dental care elsewhere. These individuals should receive a letter of recommendation from the lodge.
People who are to receive treatment will be screened to determine their eligibility and ability to receive treatment at a mobile clinic with the help of local anesthesia, if necessary.
Elks mobile units have served over 100,000 customers since 1962.
This special unit is a self-propelled, bus-like vehicle equipped to provide a full range of dental services, such as x-rays, fillings, extractions, cleanings and other treatments.
