Oral health is deeply connected to overall health. Children miss more school hours due to dental pain and oral health issues than from the flu each year, and adults miss work for the same reasons. Yet, access to dental care remains limited in many communities. The need is greater than the number of appointments available. For these patients, dental visits often take longer and may require more than one appointment. To close that gap and ensure patients receive the care they deserve, CHC continues to grow our team, expand locations, and build partnerships.
CHC/SEK launched its dental services in 2005, expanding access to quality oral healthcare for the communities it serves. Today, our Dental department includes five general dentists, one pediatric dentist, 19 dental assistants (in-clinic and outreach), and 16 hygienists, along with dedicated leadership support. Each role plays an essential part in delivering high-quality, patient-centered care. To meet the needs of our patients, we’ll continue to grow our team.
Currently, we offer dental services at Pittsburg North, Parsons, and Iola clinics. Patients have access to a comprehensive range of care, including:
- Cleanings and preventive care
- Scaling and root planing (deep cleanings)
- Extractions
- Restorations (fillings)
- Crowns
- Select root canals
- IV sedation services
- Oral conscious sedation for pediatric patients
- Operating room-based dental procedures, when needed
As we bring dental services back to Baxter Springs later this year, patients in Cherokee County and surrounding areas will have closer access to care. This expansion reduces travel time and removes barriers, especially for those who currently commute to Pittsburg, Parsons, or Iola to receive dental care. It also creates greater access for patients in nearby Oklahoma communities, including Miami and Bartlesville, who already receive medical care from us.
Looking ahead, CHC/SEK will continue to strengthen partnerships that support long-term access to care. By partnering with the Kansas City University College of Dental Medicine in Joplin, we’ll be able to build a stronger provider pipeline for our communities. By hosting dental medicine students in our clinics, we can introduce them to community health and the difference they can make in rural areas. These connections may encourage more dentists to stay and serve the region after graduation.
Access to dental care is about more than healthy smiles — it impacts patients’ overall health, confidence, and quality of life. By continuing to invest in our team and services, we are strengthening access to care across our communities and preparing to meet the needs of the future, one smile at a time.