Implementation of CDC

When implementing a Community Dental Center (CDC), it is important to have the appropriate staff, partners, and resources to reach the target population.

Staff needed

Staff needed to deliver oral health services in a dental clinic model, in either a slum or village or remote area, must have access to dental professionals. If it is not feasible to hire a full-time dentist, local dentists should be approached to donate time. Students from local dental schools can also be involved in the program. Programs with an outreach component may need to hire an outreach coordinator. Programs with a school-based education model will need a health educator to educate children about oral health.

There would be need for full or part-time staff, along with volunteers and students. Many programs work with bilingual providers and staff.

• Program manager
• Coordinator
• Dentist
• Dental assistant
• Case manager
• Outreach worker
• Educator

Other resources

CDC will also need different resources.

Education and outreach

CDC will require culturally appropriate curricula and education materials. Mobile dental van CDC will require a reliable vehicle that can hold portable dental equipment and supplies. A fixed CDC having a clinic will require space and supplies, among other resources.

Community support
A CDC will need community support plus a team of dentists and assistants. Approval and assistance should be obtained from the Government recognized local health body.

Training materials
Programs require materials and curricula that can help staff to provide services to the target population. If CDC has an educational component, it is important to use culturally appropriate education and outreach materials.

Supplies
CDC clinic or outreach mobile van may need to distribute brochures, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and floss to individuals.

Space
CDC clinic may rely on schools and other organizations to donate space for education or dental clinic activities.

Transportation
Mobile dental van programs require a reliable vehicle that can hold portable dental equipment and other supplies. These dental clinics can be of advantage in places like naturally isolated areas such as high altitudes or dense forests, military and missionary programs, or disaster situations. Mobile Dental vans can be easily transported, are time efficient, and require relatively less equipment.