Community Dental has expanded to meet the growing demand for dentistry and oral health services. With state-of-the-art technology and a highly skilled team of dentists and hygienists, Community Dental is committed to addressing the backlog that Covid created and ensuring families get back on track for routine and urgent dental needs.
Medical care and dentistry are traditionally thought of as separate fields, but at Community Health, primary care includes medical, dental and behavioral health, understanding the close connection between physical, oral and behavioral health.
To accommodate the growing demand for dental services, Community Dental’s location in Rutland at 69 Allen Street has expanded, incorporating several new exam rooms. Dental services are also available at Community Dental Shorewell.
Meet Our New Providers
“We have eight dentists including a part-time endodontist and a specialized kids clinic tailored exclusively to meet the pediatric needs of the community,” said Rachel Rivard, DDS, Community Health’s Dental Director. “The entire team collaborates seamlessly to deliver exceptional dental care to Rutland and beyond.”
Three new dentists have joined the team.
Dr. Gray has been practicing dentistry for the past six years, in Washington, D.C. and Maryland. After receiving her Doctor of Dental Surgery from Columbia University College of Dental Medicine, she volunteered at the Gamertsfelder Mission Center in Jamaica, providing treatment for patients in underserved communities. Having grown up in a rural part of the island and once being an underserved dental patient herself, Dr. Gray understands the importance of having access to dental care. Combining her love for science and art, she delivers comprehensive, holistic care at Community Dental, with a special focus on nurturing positive dental experiences for children.
Dr. Shakarchi, DMD, a graduate of the College of Dental Medicine at the University of New England in Portland, Maine, is dedicated to restoring smiles without judgment of an individual’s present circumstances. “Life can present challenges that may have hindered dental care at some point. It’s important to understand and empathize without judgment,” he said. Dr. Shakarchi specializes in dental reconstruction, particularly in the crafting of dentures and crowns.
Dr. Williams has found her niche at Community Dental, a place that aligns perfectly with her affinity for working with the younger generation. While her previous focus was primarily on adults, she’s no stranger to the world of kids’ dentistry. During her time practicing dentistry in Florida, she frequently participated in special pediatric days, providing dental care for all ages and access to care for everyone. Dr. Williams said the “solid team” at Community Dental was a convincing factor for her to join Community Dental. “Having a solid team makes your professional life so much easier, and I genuinely feel that sense of unity here. It enables me to connect with the kids and provide them with exceptional care.”
The Demand for Dental Services – Catching Up After Covid
In the Rutland/Addison County area, there is a communitywide need for expanded dental services. At Community Dental, providers work with primary care and pediatric healthcare teams to establish a medical home for patients, identifying overall healthcare needs. “The time lost during the Covid-19 pandemic has been challenging to regain, and now we’re working hard to catch up,” said Dr. Rivard.
During the pandemic, the cultivation of good oral health habits took a back seat to other pressing concerns. “When individuals face significant mental health challenges, maintaining regular oral hygiene routines often falls by the wayside. This was a particularly trying period for people of all ages, and self-care was not always prioritized,” she said.
With the expansion of Medicaid coverage to dental care, Community Dental has a wider reach to individuals and families who typically wouldn’t have access to dental insurance. “More individuals are seeking care now, some for the first time. Dental coverage is available for both adults and children enrolled in Vermont Medicaid programs,” said Dr. Rivard.
Oral Health Means Good General Health
Medicine and dentistry have been separate health regimens for many years, but the connection between oral health and general health has become indisputable. Those diagnosed with diabetes, for example, may be more at risk for dental issues.
According to the Vermont Department of Health, “Some studies have linked periodontal disease to low birth weight and preterm birth. And the bacteria that causes dental decay can be passed from caregiver to child. It is recommended that children have their first dental visit by age one.”
Our Dental Care Team Understands Your Child
Community Dental’s family dentists and hygienists are trained to understand the physical and emotional needs of children and the importance of oral health education. Building strong, trusting relationships with young patients is important as the child grows.
Call 802-774-5050 for more information and appointment availability. We are accepting appointments for patients of all ages.
Community Health is Vermont’s largest FQHC (Federally Qualified Health Center), a network of primary care, pediatric, behavioral health, dental and pharmacy services with offices in Rutland, Brandon, Castleton, West Pawlet and Shoreham. Community Dental offices are located in Rutland and Shoreham; Community Health Pediatrics is in Rutland; and Behavioral Health services are available at all of our locations. Community Health Express Care centers, open 7 days a week, are located at the Rutland and Castleton Community Health Centers.
Learn more about career opportunities, hours and Community Health locations on our website, chcrr.org. To reach Community Health’s Patient Access Center call 802-779-9169.
