Local Start Dental's December 2025 Update: Expanding Access, Transforming Lives

As we close out 2025, Local Start Dental is proud to share an important milestone in our mission to restore smiles and confidence to underserved communities across North Carolina.

A Strategic Expansion in Dental Care

Following a comprehensive strategic planning process earlier this year, Local Start Dental identified a critical gap in our community: accessible, comprehensive dental care. In response, we've expanded our services beyond tooth replacement to include general dentistry. This means we can now serve patients who need preventive care, restorative treatments, and full mouth reconstructions—all under one roof.

"We identified a critical community need: accessible, comprehensive dental care," shares Jenny Marler, Executive Director. "In response, and with your support, we expanded our services beyond tooth replacement to include general dentistry. We are now proudly serving patients who need both."

Impact by the Numbers

The results speak for themselves:

Since Opening (September 2021 - October 2025):

• 3,458 unique patients served

• $14.8 million in donated dentistry to date

• 4,723 exams completed

• 10,461 extractions performed

• 1,800 dentures created

• 2,267 implants and implant-supported dentures placed

2025 Year-to-Date Highlights (January - October 2025):

• $3.97 million in donated services

• $3,458 average donated services per patient

• 1,742 total unduplicated patients served

More Than a Dental Practice

What sets Local Start Dental apart is our unique service-and-training model. We provide hands-on continuing education to dentists from across the country while delivering exceptional patient care.

During our live courses in digital dentures, extraction and grafting, and beginner single implants, patients receive treatment while doctors learn advanced skills and techniques.

As Dr. Corey Schultz notes about our implant course: "I placed two [implants] in under 30 minutes, and they both worked great. Figuring out patient selection, simplifying, and demystifying the science behind placing implants has been great."

Community Partnership at Our Core

None of this would be possible without our incredible community partners, including Duke Health, Durham Rescue Mission, El Centro Hispano, Lincoln Community Health Center, and many others. These collaborations allow us to reach the families who need us most.

Looking Ahead to 2026

As we celebrate this year's achievements, we're also looking toward the future. Our goal is to continue expanding the reach of our collaboration and serve even more neighbors across North Carolina who deserve quality dental care.

Will you support our mission? Year-end giving helps us start 2026 strong and ready to transform more lives. Visit our Support Page to learn more about the impact your help makes possible.