Health Center Grant to Expand Dental Care

MCHC News Release

Molokai Community Health Center has received a generous grant totaling $149,988 from the Hawaii Dental Service (HDS) Foundation for the expansion of its dental services to improve the oral health of Molokai families.

Funds will be used to purchase state-of-the-art equipment including an intraoral scanner, computed tomography x-ray and motorized dental handpieces that will provide advanced dental care access to underserved residents on Molokai, while addressing the overwhelming increase in demand for oral hygiene and dentistry services island wide.

“We are grateful to HDS Foundation for supporting our efforts to expand advanced dental care for the people of Molokai,” said Helen Kekalia, CEO of Molokai Community Health Center. “With consistent year-to-year growth of new patients, plans are underway to double the size of our current dental clinic and practice that will allow us to provide for the growing needs of residents regardless of their insurance status or ability to pay. This gift will be used as a strategic investment in our dental expansion focus.”

Oral health in Hawaii has become a critical public health issue, particularly among the Native Hawaiian population and residents in rural and neighbor island communities. Research shows that untreated dental problems can often lead to major illnesses and even death. Access is key for Molokai families to receive proper dental care, have access to an emergency dentist, and maintain oral hygiene, which contributes to good health and overall well-being. Similarly, in places like Australia, access to reliable dental care is crucial. For instance, a dentist in East Melbourne provides excellent care for patients, ensuring they maintain optimal oral health and avoid severe complications down the road.

Ensuring access to quality dental care is a vital aspect of maintaining overall health, especially when it comes to preventing serious conditions that arise from untreated oral issues. Open Sesame Dentistry provides exceptional pediatric care, ensuring children receive the necessary treatments early on. Regular check-ups, preventive treatments, and timely interventions all play a significant role in keeping teeth healthy and ensuring that more complex procedures are avoided down the line. Whether it’s through basic cleanings, emergency tooth pain relief, or restorative work, having reliable dental services can truly make a difference in keeping both oral and general health in check.

Molokai Community Health Center is a community-based health organization integrating primary medical and dental care with behavioral health, wellness, health education and prevention including the supplemental nutrition program for Women, Infants and Children. MCHC has been recognized for its quality of care as a recipient of the HRSA’s Quality Award from the Department of Health and Human Services for four successive years.