Atlantic Health System celebrates expanded support for dental services at Morristown Medical Center
MORRISTOWN, NJ (Morris County) – Atlantic Health System is pleased to announce the expansion of dental services for vulnerable populations at the Dental Center at Morristown Medical Center, thanks to the creation of a generous endowment from Delta Dental of New Jersey, Inc.
The center, newly named Delta Dental Center at Morristown Medical Center, is a thriving hub of care for thousands of patients through nearly 8,000 visits annually.
As a critical resource for seniors, at-risk children, and developmentally disabled patients, the center provides care ranging from root canal treatments and extractions, to reconstructive surgery and dental health education for individuals of any age. Thanks to a generous and substantial donation from Delta Dental of New Jersey, new resources will help improve care and educate the next generation of dentists, hygienists, and dental assistants.
“Through dedicated programs such as Senior Smiles, the highly specialized Developmental Disabilities program, and Healthy Smiles, Healthy Children, the Delta Dental Center at Morristown Medical Center continues our commitment to caring for our entire community,” said Trish O’Keefe, PhD, RN, President, Morristown Medical Center. “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Delta Dental of New Jersey who remain a steadfast partner in serving the changing needs of those who turn to us for dental care in challenging life circumstances.”
The center recently moved into a larger space within the hospital. Two additional clinical spaces allow more room to accommodate wheelchairs and gurneys, particularly important for a variety of patients with specialized needs. Patients cared for include those with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome and Cerebral Palsy, as well as traumatic brain injury, vision impairments, cleft abnormalities and other challenges. This population experiences dental issues due to physical, cognitive and financial challenges that can make routine care difficult and can lead to problems with overall health. Many individuals with developmental disabilities need to undergo procedures in the operating room under general anesthesia, which requires a specific approach to care.
“Delta Dental of New Jersey has a proud history of supporting access to high-quality dental care for vulnerable communities at Morristown Medical Center,” said Paul J. Di Maio, President and CEO, Delta Dental of New Jersey, Inc. “The dedication of Elizabeth Clemente, DDS, her team, and the many dentists who volunteer their time and expertise is truly remarkable. By endowing this program, we are honored to support their vital work for many years to come.”
Along with outpatient care, the center also serves Morristown Medical Center’s inpatient population, performing pre-operation examinations and extractions to clear patients for surgeries and minimize risk for infection. Additionally, the center attends to the oral health needs for patients in the Sameth Emergency Department and assists with trauma patients that require dental support. This diverse range of services offers a comprehensive training environment for dental clinicians, whether they are new to the field or pursuing ongoing education. This includes dental residents who use the center for their training. As of 2024, the Delta Dental Center has four residents engaged in treating patients while continuing to hone their clinical skills.
Delta Dental of New Jersey has a longstanding connection with Atlantic Health System, including providing grant funds to support Morristown’s dental program for more than 20 years and being an administrator of the health system’s dental plan for team members.
Discover ways to support the extraordinary care provided at Morristown Medical Center by visiting https://www.f4mmc.org/.
