Dr. Michele Bloxson, the dental director at Corktown Health in Detroit, has a remarkable story. Growing up in Detroit, she originally wanted to be a pediatrician. However, when the medical track at her high school was full, she was guided towards dental assisting. This unexpected turn led her to discover her passion for dentistry, thanks to a mentor who inspired her along the way.
Bloxson dedicated over two decades to her career. She now focuses on marginalized patients, especially in the LGBTQ community and those living with HIV. Strikingly, less than 4% of dentists in the U.S. are Black, despite Black Americans making up over 12% of the population, according to the American Dental Association and the U.S. Census. Bloxson’s presence matters; she builds trust among her patients, many of whom have faced discrimination in traditional healthcare settings.
“When patients see providers who look like them, it establishes trust,” she says. Bloxson’s clinic is a sanctuary where patients can receive care without fear of judgment. Many travel long distances to access this safe environment, having been turned away elsewhere.
Understanding past traumas is essential in Bloxson’s practice. With specialized training from the Delta Dental Foundation, she emphasizes a trauma-informed approach. This method helps her connect with patients who might carry heavy burdens from negative past experiences. It’s vital to treat each patient with respect and compassion, as many come in with their own stories of pain and mistrust.
Bloxson is particularly invested in educating her patients about HIV. Despite significant advances in treatment, misinformation persists. Modern medications now enable many HIV-positive individuals to reach undetectable viral levels, which means the virus is not transmittable. This progress is a significant achievement in medical science.
She champions the principle of U = U, meaning undetectable equals untransmittable, which underscores the importance of consistent treatment and regular check-ups for patients. This educational effort is crucial in dispelling fear and promoting health.
Bloxson’s journey to leading the dental program at Corktown Health began just over two years ago, when she was brought on to build services from scratch. Today, the clinic has expanded to a second location, responding to the rising demand for accessible dental care in the community.
Beyond her work, Bloxson is part of a sisterhood of African American women dentists in Metro Detroit, all dedicated to making healthcare equitable. They share resources and encourage one another in their leadership roles, committed to ensuring that good oral health is a right, not a privilege.
Her passion for mentoring the next generation of dentists is a testament to her dedication to education. “It’s all about passing on knowledge,” she says. Dr. Bloxson’s commitment to her patients and the community exemplifies how one person’s journey can create profound change.
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