White River Dentist brings smiles to faces in more ways than one
Tara Symancyk, DDS, has partnered with Ottauquechee Health Foundation for over five years to help bring dental care to patients in need.
“One of the best feelings as a dentist is when you can give someone their smile back,” said Dr. Tara Symancyk of White River Dentist. And a smile can sometimes make all the difference. Symancyk noted that major dental issues can make people too embarrassed to show up for a job interview.
But Dr. Symancyk and OHF Good Neighbor Grants have made a difference in some patients’ lives. She recalls seeing that look of relief on a patient’s face when they hear a grant could make much-needed dental work possible.
“It’s just giving people a little extra boost to, number-one, help them just afford dentistry,” she said.
Dr. Symancyk noted that the program dovetails perfectly with something the practice takes great pride in: making every possible effort to provide care, including for those in need. “We try and really be here for everyone in the Upper Valley,” Dr. Symancyk said.
White River Dentist provides a full range of dental services, including fillings, dentures, and root canals. The practice participates with Medicaid, works with the nearby VA Hospital, and also participates with some of the larger insurance companies throughout New England.
“If patients have access to insurance, we want to make sure they have access to be able to afford dentistry,” Dr. Symancyk said.
She’s been with White River Dentist for 10 years, but the three-dentist practice has been in the area for the past 40 years. Sometimes, the office treats patients whose grandparents received their dental care there. Dr. Symancyk said it’s special to have that close connection with the community they serve. “It’s nice to get to know people’s stories,” she said.
Regarding OHF Good Neighbor Grants, Dr. Symancyk said Beth Robinson at OHF does a great job explaining the process. White River Dentist is also able to give a discount toward the care for people who receive grants. “We feel very lucky to be part of a community that has this available,” said Dr. Symancyk.