Neighborhood Health at Lebanon has recently added dental services to the full-service health clinic. A dentist and hygienist are available three days a week, and the clinic accepts both appointments and walk-in clients.

The expansion of dental services was funded by a $350,000 grant from the Department of Health and Human Services. Services include cleanings, x-rays, fillings, extractions and dentures. Care is provided to children from the age of four years old and for adults of all ages. The clinic welcomes those with dental insurance, TennCare and those who have no insurance. Dental and medical services are provided to those without insurance at a discount rate based on income.

"Neighborhood Health always tries to provide comprehensive services and holistic care to those we serve," said Mary Bufwack, CEO. "Over the last few years, we have been able to provide integrated medical and behavioral services at all 12 clinics, including our clinics in Lebanon and Hartsville. To now be able to provide residents of Lebanon, Wilson County, Trousdale County and the surrounding communities access to affordable dental care is very exciting."

She noted that poor oral health often has a serious impact on other health conditions like diabetes and hypertension, and that good oral health is essential for pregnant women. "Tennessee ranks 47th in the nation for the level of overall oral health and is one of only a half-dozen states where Medicaid does not provide dental insurance to covered adults."

Neighborhood Health currently provides dental care to about 2,500 patients through dental clinics at three of its Nashville facilities: Napier, East Side and Mission clinics. A similar project is in process at Neighborhood Health at Cleveland Park in Nashville and will begin serving dental patients in June.