Charlotte Welcomes New Pediatric Dentistry with a Mission
Charlotte is buzzing with excitement as a new dentistry is set to open its doors next year! Bubbles Pediatric Dentistry, founded by Somtochukwu “Somie” Agunwah, is not just any dental practice. It is the brainchild of a woman who is passionate about creating a vibrant and welcoming space specifically for children in the community. Located at 2012 Beatties Ford Road, the 4,200-square-foot facility aims to serve kids aged six months to eighteen years.
A Community-Oriented Vision
Somie has a heartfelt reason for choosing the Beatties Ford Road area. “I wanted to make sure I was situated in a place where brown and Black girls that look like me, and boys, can have a safe space where they could get their treatment,” she said. After moving from Lagos, Nigeria, to Charlotte in 2003, it’s clear she is committed to giving back to her roots.
Graduating from UNC Charlotte with a degree in nursing, Somie gained valuable experience working as a critical care nurse at Howard University Hospital in Washington, D.C. Her journey eventually led her to dental school at Howard University College of Dentistry, where she realized her passion for working with children. “They are still teachable,” she explains, underscoring her dedication to fostering a positive dental experience for young patients.
Breaking Barriers in Business
The opening of Bubbles Pediatric Dentistry is a significant step towards family-friendly business development along the increasingly vibrant Beatties Ford Road corridor, which has seen more Black professionals establishing their presence. Somie’s choice stands out especially since many residents were unhappy with plans for a smoke shop to open in the same location before the agreement switched to her dental practice.
“I hope to increase the number of Black dental assistants and also hope to give them job opportunities as well,” Somie stated while discussing her plans to eventually incorporate training and hiring of local black dental assistants in her practice. Beyond that, her aim is to volunteer in local churches and schools, reinforcing her commitment to the community.
From Restaurant to Dental Practice
Bubbles Pediatric Dentistry is not Somie’s first venture within the Charlotte business landscape. In 2019, she opened African Kitchen on The Plaza, but issues such as low-profit margins led her to close it down. “If you’re gonna do [a restaurant], you need to be very visible, and it needs to be in a great location,” Somie recalled, mapping out the lessons learned from those experiences.
With the new dental practice, Somie is all about positivity and playfulness—hence the catchy name, Bubbles. She hopes that children will associate dental visits with fun, not fear. The clinic aims to be a joyful workshop where children can learn about their dental health in an engaging way, helping demystify what might otherwise be a daunting experience.
The Community Responds
The enthusiasm around Somie’s new establishment mirrors a broader community effort to enhance local businesses that cater to families. Many advocates have been working diligently to ensure that the Beatties Ford Road corridor features businesses that support community needs and aspirations.
As the area continues to evolve, Somie’s innovative approach is being celebrated. With her commitment to nurturing not just young smiles but also careers within the dental field, residents can look forward to a brighter future not only for their children but also for local professionals seeking opportunities within the community.
So keep an eye on Beatties Ford Road, where one woman’s dream is turning into a community endeavor. Bubbles Pediatric Dentistry is set to sprinkle some magic into keeping Charlotte’s youth happy and healthy!
