Big River First Nation can now offer dental services to adults (submitted photo/Melanie Martell) 

By Glenn Hicks

access to care

Big River F.N. gets dental clinic

Sep 28, 2020 | 5:07 PM

The opening of a new clinic signals a big boost for dental care at Big River First Nation.

A full-time dentist, assistant and administrator are now part of a team that joins existing senior dental therapist Melanie Martell, at their community health centre northwest of Prince Albert.

“It really bridges the gaps: in transportation, language and cultural barriers,” Martell told paNOW Monday following the opening. “Bringing the services into the community is going to benefit all age groups.”

She added it will mean access to full dental treatment plans for those accessing non-insured health benefits whereas previously they were referred for treatment only on an emergency basis.

The facility is a partnership with the College of Dentistry with the University of Saskatchewan. Up until now the community had to travel to Shellbrook, Prince Albert or Saskatoon for treatment.

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The clinic now has the equipment and services offered in the city (submitted photo/Melanie Martell)

Martell explained their existing space was renovated in preparation of the new team’s arrival and now features X-ray technology and other aspects “to be a central hub, and we’re equipped like any dental office would be in the city.”

Her mandate is to provide oral care for children to age 18 but now adults will also be able to book appointments, including on some evenings and weekends.

“Especially our Elders, they don’t like going to the city, so this will benefit them,” Big River First Nation Health Director Marlene Morin said. “Also, the adults, they come here and want this work done but [previously] there was only so much that could be done and we’d have to make referrals [elsewhere].”

The College of Dentistry with the U of S said it is actively in touch with the community to assess needs and plan services.

“Access to care is a barrier to oral health that can be seen across underserved populations, as well as rural and remote areas of Saskatchewan,” the college’s Director of Inclusive Community Care, Dr. Amrinderbir Singh said.

“I think there is going to be a lot of demand in the community, especially for some of the routine dental care services.”

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glenn.hicks@jpbg.ca

On Twitter:@princealbertnow