Dental Services

Are you looking for a dental care provider that places uncompromised attention to your needs? Looking after your dental health is key to attaining and maintaining a bright, confident smile. Our professional dentals staff here at Southside Medical Center in Atlanta are here to give each of our patients outstanding dental care and support for helping your smile shine healthier and brighter.

We don’t just treat teeth—we care for the person behind the smile. Our dental team takes time to understand your concerns, explain your options, and create a care plan that fits your lifestyle and health needs. Whether you’re visiting us for the first time or continuing treatment, we aim to make every appointment clear, respectful, and empowering. Your comfort and well-being matter here, and we’re proud to be part of your journey to better oral health.

The Importance of Dental Care

At Southside Medical Center, we understand that dental health is deeply connected to your overall well-being. Your mouth is often one of the first places where signs of broader health issues appear, making regular dental care a critical part of preventive healthcare.

Gum disease, for example, doesn’t just affect your teeth—it’s also been linked to serious chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Maintaining healthy gums can help reduce inflammation in the body and support better long-term health outcomes. Similarly, untreated oral infections such as abscesses or advanced tooth decay can compromise your immune system, placing additional strain on your body and potentially leading to more serious complications.

If you’re managing chronic health issues like hypertension, diabetes, or kidney disease, your oral health becomes even more important. Dental problems can make these conditions harder to control, so our dental providers coordinate care with your medical team when needed. This integrated approach helps ensure you receive complete, personalized support across all areas of your health.

Preventive dental visits also offer an opportunity to detect early signs of systemic issues such as nutritional deficiencies, autoimmune disorders, or oral cancers. At Southside Medical Center, we treat the mouth as part of the whole body and are here to help you stay healthy, inside and out.

What Dental Services Are Available To Me?

We offer a wide range of high-quality dental services designed to meet the needs of every patient, whether you’re coming in for routine care, experiencing pain, or looking for long-term support. Our experienced dental team provides compassionate care in a welcoming, community-focused setting, with services tailored for children, adults, and seniors alike.

From preventive treatments to emergency care, we’re here to help you maintain a healthy smile and address issues before they become serious. Our professional staff provides a variety of dental services, including:

Cleanings

Regular dental cleanings are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Our hygienists remove plaque, tartar, and surface stains that brushing alone can’t eliminate. Cleanings help prevent gum disease, cavities, and other oral health issues before they start. We recommend most patients receive a cleaning every six months for optimal oral health.

Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that helps strengthen tooth enamel and prevent decay. Our in-office fluoride treatments are quick, painless, and highly effective, especially for children and patients at higher risk of cavities.

The treatment involves applying a concentrated fluoride solution directly to the teeth. This protective layer works to remineralize enamel and reduce sensitivity.

Filings

Fillings are used to restore teeth damaged by cavities or minor fractures. We use tooth-colored, composite materials for a natural-looking and long-lasting result.
The procedure involves removing decay and filling the space to restore the tooth’s function and shape. Prompt treatment with fillings can prevent the need for more complex procedures like crowns or root canals.

Extractions

Extraction may be necessary to protect your oral health when a tooth is too damaged or decayed to be saved. Our team performs extractions with gentle techniques and local anesthesia to ensure comfort.

We provide clear aftercare instructions to support a smooth recovery. We can discuss options for replacing the extracted tooth, such as dentures or specialist referrals.

Comprehensive Diagnostic Services

Our dental team performs comprehensive assessments at every visit to detect issues early and support your long-term oral health. We offer digital dental X-rays to identify cavities, monitor bone health, and uncover problems that may not be visible during a standard exam.

Oral cancer screenings are also included in your routine checkup, allowing us to evaluate your lips, tongue, and soft tissues for any early warning signs. In addition, we conduct careful evaluations of your head, neck, and jaw to check for structural abnormalities, swelling, or discomfort. These diagnostic services help us tailor treatment plans that are proactive, preventive, and personalized.

Emergency Services

We address urgent dental issues such as broken or dislodged teeth, severe toothaches, and infections. Prompt treatment is emphasized to prevent further complications and alleviate pain.

Pediatric Dental Care

Southside Medical Center offers gentle, compassionate dental care for children starting at age 3. Our team creates a welcoming environment that helps young patients feel safe and supported throughout their visit.

We provide preventive services like fluoride treatments and dental sealants to protect growing smiles from cavities. Parents also receive guidance on supporting their child’s oral hygiene at home, from brushing tips to healthy habits that last a lifetime.

We can also provide referrals for full and partial dentures to patients from early childhood through adulthood to complete their smile.

What to Expect as a New Dental Patient

At Southside Medical Center, we want your first dental visit to be as smooth and stress-free as possible. Whether you’re coming in for preventive care or addressing a specific concern, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Your first appointment typically lasts about 60–90 minutes and begins with a warm welcome from our front desk staff. You’ll complete a short check-in process and, if applicable, submit any necessary paperwork or eligibility documentation for insurance or our Sliding Fee Scale Program.

Once you’re brought back, our dental team will review your medical history, discuss any concerns you have, and perform a thorough exam. This may include digital dental X-rays, a visual screening of your teeth and gums, and in many cases, a professional cleaning, depending on your needs and treatment plan.

Before you leave, we’ll walk you through your recommended care plan, answer any questions about follow-up visits, and review payment options. If you’re uninsured or underinsured, a financial counselor will review available discounts based on household size and income, helping ensure you get the care you need without unnecessary financial stress.

Insurance and Payment Options

At Southside Medical Center, we believe everyone deserves access to high-quality dental care, regardless of income or insurance status.

• We Accept Most Major Insurance Plans: Including Medicaid, Medicare, and most private insurers (excluding Kaiser Permanente).
• Flexible Payment Methods: We accept cash, all major credit/debit cards, and checks (processed instantly via ACH).
• Sliding Fee Scale Available: If you’re uninsured or underinsured, you may qualify for our Sliding Fee Scale Program, which offers discounted services based on household income and family size. This program is made possible through funding from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.
• Support for Self-Pay Patients: Don’t have insurance? You can still receive services. Our financial advisors can work with you on payment options that fit your needs and ensure you receive the care you deserve.

What to Bring to Your Dental Appointment

At Southside Medical Center, we want your dental visit to be smooth, efficient, and stress-free. Please bring the required documents based on your insurance or financial status to help us provide the highest quality care, especially if you’re applying for sliding fee discounts.

All Dental Patients

• Photo ID (required at every visit)
  • (If you do not have a photo ID, our front desk can assist with completing an affidavit.)
• Any recent dental records or X-rays (if available)
• A list of current medications or medical conditions
• Guardianship documents if bringing a child for care

Patients with Insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid

• Insurance card (required at each visit)
• Photo ID

Patients Applying for Sliding Fee Scale Dental Discounts

If you’re uninsured or underinsured and wish to apply for discounted dental services, bring the following documents to your first visit after March 1st or at least once annually:

• Proof of Identification: Current photo ID
• Proof of Income (only one required):
  • Two recent pay stubs (for all household earners), or
  • Most recent tax return, W-2, or government benefit letter (SSI, child support, SNAP, disability, etc.), or
  • Notarized letter from employer or official letter of income reference

• Proof of Family Size (only one required):
  • Prior year’s tax return, or
  • Birth certificates for all children under 18, or
  • Court-issued guardianship or custody documents

Special Circumstances

• Self-Employed: Most recent federal tax return and unemployment wage letter (if applicable)
• Unemployed: Federal tax return and 30-day separation notice or wage determination letter
• Homeless: Certification for Homeless Form (available at the front desk)
• No Documents Available: Self-Attestation of Income Form (ask front desk for assistance)

If you arrive without the required documentation, you may still be evaluated by a dental provider. If your condition is urgent, you will be seen and a payment arrangement will be made. If not urgent, we will offer an appointment within 48 hours or request an $80 payment toward the visit. You’ll have 7 days to bring in your documents and may be eligible for a refund once verified.

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Dental Services

What can I expect during a dental visit?

During your Southside Dental Clinic appointment, our oral hygienists and dental providers will discuss any concerns regarding your teeth, gums, or jaw you may be experiencing. Your teeth will be thoroughly examined of plaque, tartar, and any irregularities. A careful examination of your throat, tongue, neck, head, and face may be performed to scout for any indications of swelling, structural abnormalities, or possible signs of cancer.

When should my child see a dentist?

Our providers encourage parents to start their children’s dental care at age 3 with a general exam by the hygienist. Then at the age of 5, a child should have a complete exam by the dentist.

How can I care for my teeth in between dental visits?

Brushing at least twice daily can significantly improve your dentals and oral hygiene. Flossing and using an approved mouthwash can also aid in controlling plaque buildup and help prevent many dental concerns.

Do you provide dental education or oral hygiene counseling?

Yes, our dental team provides personalized education during your visit. We help you understand the best techniques for brushing and flossing, explain how diet affects your oral health, and offer tips based on your unique needs, whether you’re a teen, adult, or senior.

Are walk-in dental appointments available?

Walk-ins may be accommodated based on availability and the urgency of your condition. We recommend calling ahead when possible to ensure a shorter wait and proper triage for your needs.

Is there a waitlist for dental appointments?

Depending on demand and location, there may be a short wait for routine dental services. However, we reserve time for urgent cases and work hard to schedule patients quickly. Calling early in the day increases your chance of a same-week appointment.

Do you offer dental services for seniors?

Yes, we provide dental care tailored to older adults, including cleanings, gum health monitoring, denture support, and oral screenings. We’ll help coordinate referrals or follow-up care through your medical provider if additional services are needed.

Why Choose Southside Medical Center for Dental Care?

At Southside Medical Center, dental care is more than cleanings and checkups—it’s a community commitment. Here’s what sets us apart:

Decades of Experience Serving Atlanta’s Communities

Founded in 1967, SMC has a long-standing legacy of delivering trusted, patient-centered care to families across Metro Atlanta, including Norcross, East Point, Riverdale, Hampton, and Forest Park.

Affordable, Accessible Dental Care

We are nationally recognized for serving the medically underserved. With sliding scale fees, financing options, and referrals for specialty services, we make sure cost is never a barrier to your care.

Family-Friendly, Whole-Person Approach

Our dental providers are part of a larger Patient-Centered Medical Home, offering coordinated support with nutritionists, pharmacists, counselors, and other health professionals who focus on your total wellness.

Convenient Locations and Hours

With locations across the metro area and service hours from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., we make it easy to access the care you need. Same-day and next-available urgent appointments are often available.

Compassionate, Multidisciplinary Care Team

Every dental visit connects you to a team that includes your provider, hygienist, medical assistants, referral coordinators, and more. We treat every patient with compassion, respect, and dignity.

Empowered Patient Access

Use our patient portal (NextMD.com) to view medical information, request appointments, or message your care team—anytime, anywhere.

Schedule Your Consultation!

Southside Medical Center is proud to provide the highest quality health and wellness care to our patients in the greater Atlanta area and beyond. Our providers, who possess years of expertise, are committed to producing exceptional primary health care along with a wide range of related services. Contact us today or call (404) 688-1350 to schedule your initial consultation and take the next step towards leading a happier, healthier, and brighter future.

SMC Southside Medical Dental Services are available to men, women, and children at two (2) locations, the Main Center on Ridge Avenue and the Gresham Road location in DeKalb County.