The Nevada Dental Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Nevada Dental Association,is considering a dental clinic in Tonopah as part of its plan to expand dental care access in rural communities, the Pahrump Valley Times reported Sept. 24.
David Mahon, DDS, the foundation's director, told the Times that the dental association has spoken with Tonopah-based Central Nevada Regional Care to discuss opening a dental clinic in its facility.
“I think Tonopah is kind of a strategic location,” Dr. Mahon said. “It’s a central location, and you have those outlying communities that are somewhat convenient to it.”
Dr. Mahon said the clinic would provide services such as root canals, oral surgery and dentures, and would serve insured and uninsured patients.
The foundation has begun applying for grants and working out the feasibility and business model for the clinic.
Dr. Mahon said the clinic will initially be volunteer-based with a permanent employee, such as a hygienist, that can oversee operations. He hopes to eventually bring on a full-time or part-time dentist, he said.