By Liz McBreen
The van will soon be cruising through Elmont to provide oral health care to students who don't have regular access to dentists. Assemblyman Tom Alfano has announced that NYU's College of Dentistry will help him sponsor the free dental clinic, based at Gotham Avenue School, for children in the 21st Assembly district.
The assemblyman recently met with the dental school in Albany to discuss a series of health initiatives that he is in the process of acquiring for the 21st district, and he was able to get the free clinic to come to the district.
"This is a very exciting program for our community," said Alfano, adding, "I'm so pleased that NYU College of Dentistry is working with me to make this special service available for our children." The clinic will be open to all children in Alfano's district from Monday, July 28 to Thursday, July 31 and Monday, Aug. 4 through Thursday, Aug. 7.
The van travels to different locations - usually public schools -- during the week to service residents. It is equipped with four dental units, two for use in the van and two portable units for use in a given facility, X-ray equipment, and a sterilization area. The crew of the van generally consists of a faculty member, four senior and/or postdoctoral students, and a dental assistant. The NYU College of Dentistry estimates that the "Smiling Faces" van will provide care for more than 1,500 children and others annually.
Alfano is coordinating the effort with the help of the Gateway Youth Outreach and the Elmont Union Free School District. "This is a great service for kids to take advantage of," said GYO Director Pat Boyle. "The clinic is free and costs nothing to the family. All they have to do is set up an appointment and the rest is left to NYU and their Dental team."
Dr. Maria Palandra, superintendent of the Elmont Union Free School District, is anticipating the positive results of the program. "I'm really pleased that Gotham Avenue School has been chosen by NYU and Assemblyman Alfano for this clinic," Palandra said. "I look forward to seeing this program make a difference for our children."
Anyone who wants to make an appointment to use the service should call Alfano's office at 437-5577. All necessary documentation will be completed at that time.
This is the first time the NYU dental clinic will be visiting Nassau County. The comprehensive dental service will provide diagnostic, preventive and restorative treatments such as X-rays, cleaning, fluoride treatments, sealants, fillings and minor tooth extractions.
All children are eligible to participate in the program, regardless of their financial status. "You don't need health insurance, and the service is free," said Alfano, adding, "everybody should take advantage of this opportunity."
