Kingsport seeking $10 million grant to expand dental clinic

The city of Kingsport is seeking a $10 million state grant to expand the Kingsport Dental Clinic of Appalachian Highlands and increase access to oral health care in the region. If awarded, the new funding would allow the clinic to expand from 12 operating chairs to 36. The expansion could help reduce the number of people seeking emergency room care for oral health problems, and gives dental students hands-on experience treating patients. The program is also intended to encourage future dental professionals to stay in or return to the Tri-Cities.