Tonopah Dental Center (TDC) held a successful educational and screening event at Tonopah Elementary School, marking a significant initiative for Children’s Dental Health Month in February 2024. The event aimed to promote the importance of oral health among children and involved collaboration with the Nye County School District, a partnership that TDC officials have been developing for several months.
Valeria Romero, clinic manager for TDC, expressed enthusiasm for the event, stating, “This is the first time TDC – Nevada Dental Foundation has organized a dental event of this nature.” She emphasized the organization’s goal to make this initiative an annual occurrence. The program was proposed by Dr. Mark Rosenberg and Professor Julie Stage-Rosenberg. Dr. Rosenberg, who has dedicated most of his career to serving children, currently volunteers at TDC. Professor Stage-Rosenberg, a registered dental hygienist, has a history of initiating similar programs in partnership with local educational institutions.
During the two-day event, TDC staff, including Assistant Lisa Gillard, provided oral health education and on-site dental screenings to students. Approximately 45 children, representing about 35% of the school’s enrollment, received screenings. Nearly all participants were treated with fluoride varnish at no cost, courtesy of the Nevada State Oral Health Program. Romero noted, “The exams identified significant preventative and restorative needs. Families received dental care recommendations and hygiene supplies donated by Liberty Insurance Co..”
The initiative aims to address dental health concerns among children, which directly impacts their overall health, learning, and quality of life. Romero pointed out, “Early prevention helps reduce cavities, pain, infections, and missed school days, while education empowers children to take responsibility for their health as they grow.” By reaching children at an early age, TDC hopes to instill proper oral hygiene habits and prevent future dental issues.
Since opening its doors in November 2023, TDC has remained committed to providing accessible dental care. However, Romero acknowledged challenges faced by the center, particularly regarding provider availability in a “frontier” community. “Despite this, we have continued working to keep dental services available. We also want to reassure the public that our office remains open and fully operational, despite the closure of Frontier Medical Group, which previously shared our building,” she stated.
To enhance its services, TDC recently hired a dentist who will provide care twice a month in the coming months. Nevertheless, the center continues to rely heavily on volunteer providers. Romero expressed a goal to hire a full-time dentist within this year to stabilize and expand their services.
For additional information regarding TDC and its initiatives, visit TonopahDentalCenter.com. The organization’s commitment to improving dental health among children highlights the critical need for preventive care in underserved communities.
