The School District of Philadelphia in partnership with Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry opened the City’s first on-site pediatric dental clinic in William D. Kelley School in North Philadelphia. Students in grade kindergarten through eight, who are public school students, will be able to make appointments to receive full dental care, including examination, cleaning, and treatments, regardless of their insurance status.
“We know the important role that dental care plays in our lives,” said Tony B. Watlington, Sr., Ed.D., superintendent of the School District of Philadelphia. “By removing health barriers, such as dental care, for our students, we are supporting their overall health and wellbeing, allowing them to be their healthiest self so that they can be present in school, focused and ready to learn.”
The clinic will be fully staffed with Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry faculty, staff and students. Housed on the third floor of the W.D. Kelley School, there are four fully equipped stations, including one room specifically designed for children with autism or other special needs and a sterilization room.
“The faculty and staff at the Kornberg School are committed to providing the best care available for the school children at W.D. Kelley,” said Amid Ismail, Dean of the Kornberg School of Dentistry at Temple University. “Our pediatric dentists are dedicated to caring for children in this community. The Temple University Dental Clinic at W.D. Kelley is a testament to Temple’s vision and commitment to public service and experiential learning.”
The dental clinic was funded by the Kornberg School of Dentistry with support from United Concordia Dental.
“It’s about trust,” said Crystal Edwards, Ed.D., principal of W.D. Kelley. “Because the clinic is on-site, inside our school, our families and community feel more comfortable receiving care from a school they know cares about the community and the TU Dental faculty. I am so proud of the work and partnership that has been forged for this amazing resource for our children.”
