By Connie Leinbach
The Baptists on Mission’s Dental Ministry van ventured back to Ocracoke island in April to render more free services to islanders.
Thanks to sponsorship by the Southwest Durham Rotary Club, this was the van’s second visit to the island after its first visit in November.
Retired dentists Dr. Stephen Smith of Morehead City and Dr. Jim Hoke of Chapel, along with other volunteer medical professionals, may return in November, said islander Jude Wheeler, who coordinated both visits.
Julie Dolinger, mobile dental ministry coordinator for the Baptists on Mission, said the following services were rendered with a value of $11,018: adult dental patients, 31; hygiene patients, 14; child hygiene patients, 2; bitewings, 55; Xrays,15; composite fillings, 29; extractions,14.
Among the island businesses who donated services were Blackbeard’s Lodge, the Castle, Helios Hideaway, Jason’s, Ocracoke Oyster Company, Oscar’s House and the Ocracoke Volunteer Fire Department where the van parked.
Smith was happy to check out the beach after two days of nonstop service.
“We had steady patients all day,” he said. “We’re glad to help. It’s just one of those things that needs to be done.”
