Dental Services
Oral health care services are provided at three facilities located in the rural areas of Freeland (Freeland Dental), Nuremberg (Black Creek Dental) and Monroe-Noxen (Monroe-Noxen Dental). Oral health care services include:
- Oral Health Assessments and Examinations: Assessment and examinations form the basis of the treatment plan and guide dentists and dental staff in how to structure patient care. Everything is entered in the patient’s Electronic Health Record, and a treatment plan is developed. Dental X-rays are taken to ascertain whether a patient has cavities or other needs. In conjunction with the examination, dental X-rays help form the action plan for dental health care.
- Cleanings: Licensed dental professional clean the patient’s teeth, removing plaque, tartar, and calcium and/or stain deposits to prevent or delay the progression of periodontal diseases.
- Fillings: Patients with cavities have their cavities filled to prevent ultimate tooth loss and other complications.
- Extractions: Extractions are performed when a tooth is so far decayed, or the underlying bone is so infected, that the tooth can no longer be salvaged without heroic efforts.
- Bridges: Dental bridges are provided when a patient needs the gap between two healthy teeth permanently filled, thus alleviating the empty space left by a missing tooth or teeth. Bridges are held in place by porcelain crowns placed on the healthy teeth on each side of the space to be filled.
- Partial or Full Dentures: Many patients need partial or full dentures. Dentures replace missing teeth and can be essential for pain relief, chewing, good digestion, and appearance, as employment and social interactions are often very challenging for people with significant edentulism (tooth lessness).
- Prevention: Preventative procedures include sealants, fluoride treatments, and oral health education to meet individual patient needs. All patients are provided with dental hygiene supplies.
- Referrals: Patients with complex oral health needs beyond the scope of Rural Health Corporation are referred to community partners.