Dental Connections Expands Access with Mobile Unit in Polk County Schools

The Polk County Board of Supervisors meeting on July 16, 2025, featured a presentation from Dental Connections, a nonprofit community health center dedicated to providing dental care to underserved populations. Kathy Salisbury, the director of development and marketing, along with her team, highlighted the importance of their mobile dental unit, which serves children in Polk County and surrounding areas.

Salisbury expressed gratitude for the ongoing support from the Board and introduced Carly Ross, the executive director, who provided an overview of Dental Connections. Founded in 1919, the organization aims to eliminate barriers to dental care for low-income families. Ross emphasized the alarming statistics regarding dental health, noting that cavities are the most common chronic disease among children, affecting more kids than asthma, diabetes, and obesity combined.

Dr. Riley Cholula, a dentist with the Smile Squad, detailed the services offered by the mobile unit, which include preventative and restorative care. The program targets children from low-income families who often lack access to dental insurance. Cholula shared that many children in the Des Moines area suffer from untreated cavities, highlighting the critical need for services like those provided by Dental Connections.

Courtney Wolterman, director of the mobile dental clinic, reported that the Smile Squad has served over 9,000 students this fiscal year across 61 schools. The program has donated over $250,000 in dental care to uninsured students. Wolterman also announced plans for rural expansion into nine additional school districts, aiming to reach more children in need.

The meeting underscored the significant role of Dental Connections in addressing dental health disparities in Polk County, with a focus on providing equitable access to care for all children, regardless of their insurance status or income level. The Board's continued support is crucial as the organization seeks to expand its outreach and impact in the community.