How To Access Care
Molar Express Minnesota is a
mobile dental clinic created especially for children and customized
for the Twin Cities.
Is my child eligible to receive services from MEM?
Any child, age 4 – 19-years-old, who qualifies for free or reduced-price
school lunch, qualifies for MEM’s state-of-the art dental services.
Additionally, all Head Start Program children are eligible. However,
all children must also be participants in one of our site partner’s
programs or services in the seven-county metro area. Treatment will
be provided to your child at no cost to your family.
Our daughter has a child. Is she eligible for services?
Yes, as long as she is part of one our site partners’ programs, is
under 20, qualifies for free or reduced-price lunch, and is still
in school.
Do you treat teens who are pregnant?
Yes! In fact, taking care of your teeth during pregnancy can improve
the health of the baby and increase birth weight. We can treat teens
as long as they are receiving services from one of our site partners,
are under 20, qualify for free or reduced-price lunch, and are still
in school.
What does it cost?
There is no cost to your family. All costs are paid through the generous
support of philanthropists. However, you are welcome to make a financial
contribution or donate new toothpaste, toothbrushes or dental floss,
if you so wish.
What if I don’t have insurance?
Molar Express Minnesota never turns a child away due to the inability
to pay. Portico Healthnet partners with Molar Express Minnesota to
help eligible families secure public medical and dental insurance.
How do I schedule an appointment for my child?
Our site partners are responsible for setting up the treatment schedule,
based on the kids they serve. Discuss any concerns or priorities you
have with the site coordinator, usually a school nurse or social worker.
How often is Molar Express Minnesota at my child’s school?
Site partners work with the Molar Express Minnesota staff to schedule
the vehicle to meet the needs of their children. The vehicle might
be booked quarterly, bi-annually or annually, depending on the school’s
need.
What forms do I need to fill out to start treatment?
Parents or legal guardians are required to fill out a Health History
form which asks for information about the child’s health and pediatrician,
and includes a place for the adult to give permission for treatment.
Adults are also invited to sign the optional photo release section
of the form.
What happens if my child develops an infection or other dental emergency?
Immediately seek out medical attention—from your closest hospital
emergency room or your child’s pediatrician or dentist. In extremely
rare cases, dental infections have lead to severe illnesses requiring
extended hospitalization or even to a child’s death. Do not wait to
have your child seen by a medical/dental professional.
Can I be with my child during their appointment?
Our dentists and dental assistants are here to answer all of your
questions. However, we have found that it is more difficult for children
to settle down if their parents or legal guardians are in the room.
We respectfully request you wait outside until the appointment is
over.
How do you help terrified children get through their appointment?
Our staff members are child experts and use diversions to distract
patients—the most popular is a current release DVD movie they can
watch during their appointment. In extenuating circumstances, the
dentist can administer anesthetic that puts the child to sleep.
As donations allow, children will be offered a new stuffed animal
or blanket to comfort them and take with them. Stickers and books,
when available, will also be offered as a reward.
What happens after my child is treated?
When your child’s tooth decay is fully treated, your family will be
referred to a local dentist for future visits. Molar Express Minnesota
is working with community clinics and neighborhood dentists to make
it easy for families to receive 6-month check-ups. Greater Twin Cities
United Way has created a Bright Smiles Program which also lists community
dental clinics.
How do I make my child’s visit last?
Each child will receive information for you to review with them. Help
your child learn healthy habits by asking them to teach you what they
have learned—not only will this reinforce what they’ve learned, but
they will experience the extra thrill of “teaching” you something
important. Remember, flossing and brushing daily will extend your
life by 7 years!
What happens if we move to another neighborhood?
Your child’s dental records will transfer with them electronically.
If your new school is signed on as a site partner, your child can
continue their dental treatment. If not, ask the school to contact
us. We welcome additional site partners within our 7-county service
area. |
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