Since opening in July, Axis Health System’s nonprofit Oral Health Clinic in Durango has had 1,066 appointments and served 521 adults and children who previously did not have access to dental care – and the clinic is planning to expand soon.

Axis Health System, a regional health care nonprofit, took over the operation of the dental clinic from San Juan Basin Public Health on July 18. As with all Community Health Center sites, the Oral Health Clinic helps underserved families who are uninsured or on Medicaid, and offers a sliding-fee scale to those who qualify. The clinic’s director, dentist Kristine Hynes, said the first seven months of operation have been a big success.

“We are making a huge impact in people’s lives, and educating entire families on healthy habits,” she said. “I think it’s important for the public to know that we’re here. We can be a resource for them if they feel like they don’t have anywhere to go.”

Hynes said people are finding out about the clinic through word of mouth, and the practice is “busting at the seams” from the high demand. The small office is located in the Commons Building along Camino del Rio in Durango. It has just enough space for two operatories (dental chairs), and a staff of four: Hynes, an assistant, a hygienist and a receptionist who is being trained to assist with dental care.

Axis Health System is addressing the increased need in two ways. First, they are working to move to a larger space and expand to four operatories with additional staff. Hynes said moving to a bigger space will allow the staff to work more efficiently and handle more emergency needs.

Second, next month AHS will add one operatory and a dental hygienist at La Plata Integrated Healthcare in Durango. This addition will allow routine screenings and cleanings for patients who have established a dental plan at the Oral Health Clinic. LPIH currently offers primary care, counseling, substance use treatment and other health services and support. Adding preventive dental care to the menu of options at LPIH is in alignment with the AHS mission of treating the whole person in one location.

Karla Sluis is a spokesperson for Axis Health System, a nonprofit that serves five counties at nine locations in Southwest Colorado.

Tips for parents on kids’ dental health

A primary goal of National Children’s Dental Health Month is to educate the public about preventive care and good habits. Below are five tips from Axis Health System Dental Director Kristine Hynes to help children develop beautiful, healthy teeth and avoid dental problems later in life.
Start early. The Oral Health Clinic offers a Happy Visit as soon as parents see their child’s first tooth – as early as 6 months old. These gentle, educational appointments help young children feel comfortable with dental visits, and prevent fear and tears later on.
Treat baby teeth with care. Some people think these teeth are not important because they are temporary. In fact, they are crucial placeholders for permanent teeth. The premature loss of a baby tooth can cause crowding and shifting, and set a child up for a lifetime of dental difficulties.
Choose sealants to prevent decay. Sealants are a resin material dentists apply to the pits and grooves of chewing surfaces to prevent cavities. This preventive service is very effective for children because they often don’t brush well enough to reach into back teeth.
Teach good habits. Incorporate brushing and flossing into morning and bedtime routines. Watch to make sure children are brushing long enough and with correct technique. Check out apps like Toothsavers Brushing Game or Disney Magic Timer, which turn brushing into a fun game.
Offer healthy food and drinks. Diet is extremely important to good oral health. Offer water, and limit sodas, juices and refined sugars. Choose healthy snacks like hard cheese and nuts. Don’t allow all-day grazing of sugary foods or drinks. Rinse with water after snacks and meals to neutralize acids that harm teeth.
To schedule a Happy Visit for a child, or to make an adult appointment, call the nonprofit Oral Health Clinic in Durango at 335-2442. The clinic accepts uninsured and Medicaid patients, and a sliding-fee scale is available for those who qualify.