Throughout the year, MusiCares partners with providers of all kinds to bring vital preventive services to the music community nationwide. These providers often generously offer their services to MusiCares at a reduced rate, allowing MusiCares to serve even more music people in need.
One of those providers is Dr. Robert J. McHarris at Newport Center Dental. He has worked with MusiCares to provide free teeth cleanings, dental exams and services to the music community as a part of our biannual clinics for the past two years.
"We understand the unique challenges musicians face when it comes to healthcare, which is why we support and encourage accessible dental care solutions," McHarris says. "It is also why we have become so passionate in our collaboration with MusiCares in continuing the efforts to offer ongoing health-related support. Taking small steps to maintain oral health can help keep our industry healthy and artists performing at their best for a lifetime."
As a part of our Provider Spotlight series, MusiCares highlights Dr. McHarris with an interview that dives deeper into his journey to becoming a dentist and the importance of preventive dental care for touring music professionals.
How did you first become interested in dental care?
I got into a scuffle in the 2nd grade which resulted in my two front teeth cracked in half. I was suspended by the school, grounded by my mother and, worst of all, sent to the dentist to get my teeth fixed. My classmates assured me that this would be the worst part of my punishment. Turns out they were wrong!
I remember leaving the office and after looking at my new teeth, I thought to myself, "These look better than the ones that broke…when I grow up, I am going to be a dentist!"
Why do you think dental care is so important?
Dental care is essential because oral health is directly linked to overall health and well-being. Poor dental hygiene can lead to cavities, gum disease and tooth loss. Additionally, it can also contribute to more serious health issues like heart disease and diabetes.
Research has demonstrated a link between gum disease with respiratory problems, issues with pregnancy and even Alzheimer's disease — all due to the inflammatory nature of the disease. Most recently, research has shown that cavities may be associated with an increased risk of osteoporosis. Bottom line, healthy teeth and gums support proper nutrition, digestion, clear speech, and self-confidence. And, preventive care helps to avoid costly and painful dental emergencies, ensuring long-term overall health and quality of life.
A large portion of music industry folks are uninsured, and even if they are insured, they don't have vision and dental. We also know that when they're on the road, it's difficult for them to take time off to get to a doctor. Can you speak to the importance of preventive care, and do you have any advice for the music community?
You're absolutely right — most artists in the music industry lack dental and vision benefits, and the demands of touring schedules make it difficult to prioritize health care. This is why preventive dental care is so crucial. Poor oral health can lead to serious and significant systemic health issues, including infections, heart disease, diabetes, all of which can impact a musician's ability to perform at their best.
My advice would be to prioritize preventive care, which can save money by preventing costly emergency treatment and time away from their passion and livelihood. I always recommend addressing any dental issue early — such as toothaches, swelling or bleeding gums. These signs should never be ignored, and checking in between tours and events will help prevent a small issue from becoming something major.
Consider a dental savings in-house plan, which is a benefit I offer to all of my patients. These plans are an incredible savings with significantly reduced rates for preventive care and treatment. We have found this to be a game-changer for uninsured artists who want to make their health a priority.
Especially when touring, be sure to stock up on dental care necessities to have handy and convenient while away from home. This will ensure you have what you need to maintain good oral hygiene while on the road. Be mindful to stay hydrated and make wise food and drink choices. Pre-schedule in advance routine check-ups between events to stay on a healthy track.
How did you first hear about MusiCares?
My good friend Greg Hetson [guitarist for Circle Jerks and Bad Religion] told me about MusiCares years ago, and we started helping all of our music industry friends that requested the time required to acquire help from MusiCares while performing their treatment as needed.
Years later, I was invited to participate at Vans Warped Tour founder Kevin Lyman's "Duffing For Dollars" golf tournament, which, along with Greg Gura's Unite the United organization, directly benefits MusiCares. Kevin introduced me to [MusiCares' Managing Director of Health Services] Stefanie Curtiss in Nashville, which led to our collaboration of twice yearly MusiCares-sponsored dental care events.
What similarities do you see between your mission and MusiCares' mission?
The similarities between our missions are pretty seamless.
Our mission has always focussed on helping all individuals in the music industry: artists, production personnel, venue staff, road crews, tour managers — everyone that is involved in providing music to the world. We have been doing that for years and have no plans to slow down!
Can you share any memorable moments from your experience benefitting the MusiCares community?
There are so many. One that stands out was a 1 a.m. after-show wisdom tooth surgery on the headliner's frontman [Laughs.] That was crazy stuff, but his window of opportunity was tight and he absolutely could not wait another minute, so we obliged!