Dr. P. Ben Meyer decided to become a public health dentist after doing outreach in public health clinics during dental school. He decided to work in this casually laid-back environment, enjoying the challenge of doing the best for a patient within the clinical and financial limitations of this setting.
After graduating from the University of Michigan's School of Dentistry, Dr. Meyer sought opportunities outside Michigan. He heard about White Bird Clinic. He had intended to do the work for a few years; however, he has been involved with the clinic for 14 years and is now their dental director. His wife, Lindsay, moved across the country from Michigan with him. They now have two daughters, ages 4 and 8. Their family enjoys a lot of family time doing outdoor activities like playing in parks or going for hikes. They are looking forward to discovering more Oregon destinations and activities.
As the new Dental Director at White Bird, Dr. Meyer oversees four dentists and two rotating dental interns. He is happy to work with a team that shares his passion. Dr. Meyers says that your heart has to be the main reason for being in a public health setting like White Bird.
One of the challenges of working at a community health center is the aging equipment. Even with grants and support from donors and the dental community, the equipment is replaced when it stops working. Yet, the biggest limitation can be what a patient can afford. Many of the clinic's Oregon Health Plan patients can only afford what their insurance will cover. So White Bird pulls a lot of teeth and does their best to get their patients' mouths healthy and comfortable so they can eat.
White Bird started doing school dental screenings in Bethel about eight years ago and has expanded its program into Springfield. This program could use volunteer dentists and dental staff who want to give back their time in their community. Like many dental offices, White Bird also has had support staff shortages, so volunteers could help fill the gap.
