Improving Oral Health in NC

Individuals of all ages are dealing with unaddressed oral health issues across North Carolina and throughout the country. For the uninsured and underinsured, the lack of affordable routine care has lead many to rely on emergency departments for once non-emergent health issues. It is the mission of Saint Mary’s Non-profit Healthcare Clinic to prevent disease and restore health of North Carolinians. The clinic operates three times a week and uses donations to purchase needed dental instruments and clinic supplies. It is the goal of Saint Mary's to transition from film-based x-rays to digital x-rays to increase the amount of patients serviced and advance the care provided.

Next Generation of Dentists

As we begin to understand how to dental assist, triage, and run a clinic at Saint Mary’s- we have realized the importance of working alongside other healthcare providers. In doing so, we have become united in pursuing a career in public service. We look forward to working alongside a team of healthcare professionals to address the current disparities in health. This commitment has been shared by all pre-health students that have volunteered at St. Mary’s.

Better Imaging: We need your help

The transition to digital radiography has improved the way dentist provide care for over two decades- all of which are not achievable by film-based radiography. It is well known that performing digital x-rays is advantageous by:  

• Reducing the amount of radiation a patient receives by 50% 

• Cost savings- convert the clinics dark room into needed space 

• No hazardous chemicals 

• Improved diagnosis

• Environmentally friendly  

Recognizing this, Saint Mary’s plans to move away from film-based radiography to digital in the near future. To advance this process, we are determined to raise enough money to assist the clinic by using this fundraiser to buy the needed clinic supplies below:  

• Dental Handpieces

• Personal protective equipment  

• Enzymatic cleaners and tuberculocidal wipes 

• Syringes

Donate today and help us share our message!

With gratitude, 

Hülya Taner, She'neka Williams, Andrew Bishop, Lillie Medlin 

UNCW Pre-dental club members