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Oral Health for All

Smiles start here!

For people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), oral health is often cited as the single greatest unmet healthcare need, with studies showing that nearly 32% of this population suffers from untreated dental caries and over 80% are affected by periodontitis. These disparities are driven by a complex web of barriers that often render routine care inaccessible. Many people with IDD face obstacles, stemming from a lack of provider training in sensory needs, physical barriers like inaccessible offices, and significant hurdles like dental anxiety and limited Medicaid coverage.

So how do we begin to break down these barriers?

What Is a Dental Open House?

This is a safe, no-pressure opportunity to: 

Explore a dental clinic
Meet staff and get hands-on experience in a calm, supportive setting
Ask questions and receive helpful resources
Opportunity to become a patient at the University of Maryland Dental School
Learn what to expect without any treatment being done

It is also a chance to share your experiences, including what works and what doesn’t, because your voice matters! 

Event Details

Monday, July 20, 2026, 12:15–1:30 p.m.

The University of Maryland School of Dentistry
Pediatric Clinic (3rd Floor)
650 West Baltimore Street
Baltimore, MD 21201

Families will receive dental resources, refreshments, and FREE admission to explore The Dr. Samuel D. Harris National Museum of Dentistry at a later date, which features interactive oral health exhibits. Families interested in ongoing care for their child will also have the opportunity to begin establishing a dental home at UMSOD.

About – The Dr. Samuel D. Harris National Museum of Dentistry

Please note that all children must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or staff member, and all attendees will need a valid ID to enter the building.

Children's Dental Office Open House Registration

Guardian's Name(Required)
Child's Name(Required)
Email(Required)
Is the child supported by fostercare?(Required)
Photo Release(Required)
I authorize The Arc Baltimore to photograph and/or record my child during this event and to use their likeness in photographs, videos, and other media for educational, promotional, marketing, fundraising, and communication purposes. I understand that these materials may be used in print, online, and on social media without compensation.

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