New Dental Suite Keeps Residents Smiling

Preventative Care is Right Around the Corner

The biggest challenge to receiving dental care in Senior Living used to be needing a family member or friend to accompany residents to an appointment. The travel itself can also be a barrier to care. “If your dentist doesn’t work down the street, you might not go,” says Paul Carlson, D.D.S. This delay in care may eventually result in an emergency trip to the dentist.

The COVID-19 pandemic further underscored the importance of dental care on campus, especially when residents cannot leave the facility.

Now, Senior Living has a dental suite next to the hair salon. Here, Carlson offers X-rays, cleanings, and small fillings that help prevent gum disease and cracked teeth.

Referrals to the dental service exclusively for Senior Living residents come mainly by word of mouth, from the residents themselves, a JMHS staff referral, or a family member. “They’ll notice that someone is not eating or complained about a toothache,” says Carlson.

Funds to equip and renovate the office came from a $50,000 grant from Delta Dental and $30,000 from the JMHS Foundation. Thanks in part to the generosity of its donors, JMHS is proud to offer these essential dental services in-house. What was once just a dream has now become a reality!

If your loved one is due for a checkup and cleaning or has a nagging toothache, their best smile is now nearby at JMHS’s dental service. To schedule an appointment, residents should see Desrae Kemen, Station Assistant, at the Care Center.