GREENVILLE, N.C. (WNCT) — Joy Soup Kitchen is expanding its services to include a dental clinic, aiming to provide much-needed oral healthcare to underserved members of the community.
The initiative began several months ago when Dr. Dennis Ross donated a dental chair to the nonprofit. Since then, the project has gained momentum.
“We’re at the point now where we’ve secured most of the equipment and supplies,” said Dr. Ross. “We’ve got an X-ray machine on the way, and we’re already screening patients.”
The clinic has already helped individuals with dental issues such as chipped teeth. Executive Director Tom Quigley recalled the emotional impact of restoring one woman’s smile.
“She used to cover her mouth when she laughed,” Quigley said. “Now she comes in smiling. It’s a small change, but it’s a big difference in her life — and that’s what we’re here for.”
The dental room has been set up in a former office space, and the team is preparing to convert a food storage room into an additional treatment space, which will include a hygienist station and an area for dental X-rays. The X-ray machine is expected to arrive within the next month.
Dr. Ross emphasized the critical need for basic dental care in the population they serve.
“Most of the people coming through here have never seen a dentist,” he said. “Many have never even been taught how to brush or floss properly.”
To support the new clinic, Joy Soup Kitchen is actively seeking volunteers.
