Dental care for uninsured comes to Polk Co.

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CROOKSTON — Two days each month, dental services will be available here for uninsured and underinsured residents of Polk County.

The county board recently agreed to provide space for Northern Dental Access Center, a Bemidji-based public health dental clinic that is supported by grants and community partnerships. The non-profit set up shop in the Polk County Public Health building here two days in June, with two more scheduled for July 19 and July 24.

In addition to cleaning, screening and sealant services provided by a Northern Dental hygienist and dental assistant, the county will offer registered nurses who can provide dental varnishing, a fluoride treatment that prevents cavities, said Sarah Reese, Polk County Public Health director.

“It’s a brand new partnership, so we’re still working out the kinks,” Reese said. “But dental care is always a need in our communities in our county.

“There’s no cost to us. We’re merely providing space and helping to advertise to the people who can benefit.”

Colleen Falk, special projects and business director for Northern Dental, said patients must meet income-eligibility guidelines for discounted rates. “If they qualify, it will be less expensive than a private dentist’s office,” she said.

Mobile sites traditionally concentrate on preventive care. However, Falk said that if more extensive dental work is needed, dentists are used. “If local dentists are taking this demographic, we refer them,” she said. “Otherwise, we refer them to our Bemidji office.”

Polk County Public Health is considering adding another dental site in its facility in McIntosh.

Reach Bakken at (701) 780-1125; (800) 477-6572, ext. 125; or send email to rbakken@gfherald.com.

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