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Dental Clinics

UNM Special Care Dental Clinic Opens to Transform Access for Patients With Disabilities

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UNM Special Care Dental Clinic

For many patients with disabilities, a routine dental visit can feel like an insurmountable challenge. Standard dental offices often lack the equipment, training, or accommodations necessary to safely treat individuals with physical, intellectual, or developmental disabilities. Now, a new clinic at The University of New Mexico is changing that.

The UNM Special Care Dental Clinic, located in Novitsky Hall on UNM’s campus, is the latest expansion of inclusive care within the state. Designed specifically for patients who cannot be treated in typical dental settings, the clinic brings together compassionate care, advanced technology, and a forward-thinking approach to dental education.

A Major Step Toward Inclusive Healthcare

The clinic’s opening was made possible through strong institutional and state backing. Gina DeBlassie, secretary of the New Mexico Department of Health, emphasized the impact this facility will have on the community.

“Thanks to the efforts of our State Legislature and Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, this dental clinic, so vital in meeting the needs of special populations to maintain their oral health, is a reality,” DeBlassie said. “This Special Care Dental Clinic will open the door to a safe and comfortable place to ensure proper oral health care to this community.”

For years, families and caregivers across New Mexico have struggled to find dentists who can safely accommodate patients with significant needs. With limited options, many patients have been forced to delay or forgo critical care. This new facility directly addresses those gaps.

Purpose-Built for Patient Comfort and Accessibility

Designed with patient experience in mind, the Special Care Dental Clinic includes thoughtful adaptations that go far beyond the basics. Everything from paint colors to lighting and sound control has been considered to reduce anxiety and sensory overload.

Dr. Blake Gutierrez, DDS, who serves as the residency program director at UNM Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD), highlighted the environment’s importance.

“It’s little things that really make a big difference,” Gutierrez explained. “Calming paint colors, dimmed lighting, and noise buffering help create a comfortable environment. These adaptations significantly reduce sensory stimulation.”

But the clinic also includes advanced features that are critical for safety and function. Specialized dental chairs with stabilizers allow patients with involuntary movements to be treated safely. The clinic also has lifts to help transfer patients from wheelchairs into treatment positions. When needed, pharmacological sedation and general anesthesia options are available to ensure patient comfort during more complex procedures.

A Regional Resource for Patients and Families

The clinic is already attracting attention from families across New Mexico and beyond. Gutierrez noted that patients routinely travel from out of state to receive care. For many, it is the first time they have found a dentist equipped and willing to treat them.

“Our patients often travel from across New Mexico and even from out of state,” said Gutierrez. “Many have faced significant challenges finding dental providers who can safely accommodate their needs. We want to change that.”

Another unique feature of the clinic is its deep integration with caregivers and families. Every appointment involves extensive coordination before and after the visit, from transportation to recovery planning.

“A lot goes into a visit other than just the patient showing up,” Gutierrez said. “It’s important everyone is on the same page before, during, and after appointments.”

Shaping the Next Generation of Dentists

Beyond providing care, the Special Care Dental Clinic is also an educational hub. It plays a central role in UNM’s dental residency training, preparing new dentists to care for patients with diverse needs.

“Our goal is to train a generation of dentists who are comfortable and competent in treating patients with special needs,” Gutierrez said. “Instead of having only a few specialists in this area, we want hundreds of dentists prepared to provide this essential care.”

Dr. Mike Richards, Executive Vice President of UNM Health Sciences and CEO of UNM Health, emphasized how the clinic fits into the broader mission of equity and education at the institution.

“Health care is about more than just treating conditions—it is about treating people with dignity, respect, and the expertise they require,” said Dr. Richards. “That is what this clinic represents. With this expansion, we are not only increasing access to care but reaffirming our values as a health system committed to equity, excellence, and innovation.”

A Long-Awaited Milestone for New Mexico

The ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 1, 2025, was a celebration years in the making. Among the attendees was University of New Mexico President Garnett S. Stokes, who joined staff, legislators, and community advocates in recognizing the moment.

The clinic stands as a testament to what can be achieved when healthcare, education, and public policy align to meet the needs of underserved populations. For the thousands of individuals with disabilities who have been left behind by conventional systems, it offers hope, dignity, and access.

Looking Ahead

With its unique combination of compassionate care, specialized equipment, and forward-looking dental education, the UNM Special Care Dental Clinic is poised to become a national model for inclusive dentistry.

Its mission is clear: to remove barriers, empower caregivers, and ensure that every patient, regardless of ability, receives the quality dental care they deserve.

As Gutierrez puts it:

“We are building more than a clinic. We are building trust, relationships, and a future where every patient can smile with confidence.”

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AZ Dentist Expands Across Arizona with Compassionate, Community-Focused Care

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AZ Dentist Expands Across Arizona

Delivering the Smile of a Lifetime in Scottsdale, Glendale, Sedona, and Sun City.

In a time when personalized healthcare is more important than ever, AZ Dentist continues to redefine what it means to provide accessible, compassionate, and comprehensive dental care. With a growing network of practices in Scottsdale, Glendale, Sedona, and Sun City, AZ Dentist is fast becoming a trusted name across Arizona communities, known not only for exceptional clinical expertise but also for its unwavering focus on patient comfort and convenience.

From its signature pink heart logo to its philosophy of treating every patient like family, AZ Dentist is building more than smiles. It’s building lasting relationships—one appointment at a time.

A Patient-Centered Approach to Dental Excellence

At the heart of AZ Dentist’s success is a deeply human approach to dentistry. The clinic’s core values—compassion, convenience, and comfort—are not just words on a website. They are the lived experience of every patient who walks through their doors.

Whether you are a first-time visitor for a simple cleaning or returning for advanced care such as implants or cosmetic treatments, AZ Dentist makes it a priority to ensure you feel welcomed, understood, and empowered in every interaction.

“We believe everyone deserves access to world-class dental care, regardless of their background or history,” says a spokesperson for AZ Dentist. “Our goal is to remove the fear and stress so commonly associated with dentistry. We do this by listening, empathizing, and delivering the kind of care we’d want for our own families.”

Four Locations, One Mission: A Healthier Arizona

To better serve patients across the state, AZ Dentist has strategically expanded its footprint, operating four distinct offices with the same unified standard of care:

Scottsdale Office – AZ Dentist (Flagship)

Located in the heart of Scottsdale, the flagship AZ Dentist office combines modern technology with a soothing atmosphere. It serves as the benchmark for what dental care should feel like: accessible, comprehensive, and stress-free. From routine exams to more complex procedures, this location continues to attract families, professionals, and retirees who value consistent and quality-driven care.

Glendale Office – Modern Family Dentistry

Blending contemporary aesthetics with patient-first service, the Glendale location operates under the name Modern Family Dentistry and is proud to be part of the AZ Dentist family. This office is especially popular with multi-generational families who appreciate the clinic’s ability to cater to both children and seniors with equal attention to detail and warmth.

Sedona Office – Sedona Family Dentistry

Surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of red rock country, the Sedona location holds a special place in the AZ Dentist network. As Sedona continues to grow as a wellness destination, this clinic provides residents and visitors alike with a reliable and friendly source for dental care in a serene, welcoming environment.

Sun City Office – 1st Classic Dental

Sun City is home to a vibrant, active senior community, and 1st Classic Dental ensures they have access to high-quality dental care without the hassle. With a focus on preventive care and restorative dentistry, this location helps older adults maintain oral health and enjoy a better quality of life.

Each office retains its unique charm and character while aligning with AZ Dentist’s system-wide commitment to excellence. Patients can expect consistent service and professionalism, no matter which location they visit.

Beyond the Chair: The WOW Factor

One of the phrases often heard within the AZ Dentist culture is “The WOW Factor.” But what does that mean for patients?

It’s the feeling you get when you walk into a dental office and are greeted with genuine smiles. It’s the attention to detail in every procedure, from how X-rays are explained to how follow-up instructions are delivered. It’s the blend of cutting-edge technology with a soft, human touch.

This WOW factor extends beyond the treatment rooms into community outreach and ongoing patient education. Whether through informational content on oral hygiene or wellness partnerships with local organizations, AZ Dentist is actively engaged in making Arizona a healthier place to live.

Your Smile, Our Passion

AZ Dentist is more than just a network of dental clinics. It is a community-driven organization that believes every smile has a story—and every patient deserves the chance to write a happy ending to theirs.

With an unwavering commitment to compassionate care, affordable services, and lasting relationships, AZ Dentist continues to set the standard for dental excellence in Arizona.

You deserve the smile of a lifetime.

Book your appointment today at any one of AZ Dentist’s convenient locations: Scottsdale, Glendale, Sedona, or Sun City.

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New Dental Clinic in South Lake Tahoe Expands Access to Care for Underserved Residents

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New Dental Clinic in South Lake Tahoe

A significant step toward expanding oral healthcare access has arrived in South Lake Tahoe. El Dorado Community Health Centers (EDCHC), in partnership with Mountain Valley Health Plan and El Dorado County Public Health, has officially opened a new dental clinic at 3443 Lake Tahoe Blvd, marking a major milestone for the region’s healthcare infrastructure.

The clinic is designed to serve both children and adults with a range of services, including exams, cleanings, fillings, crowns, extractions, and limited root canals. Its mission is clear: to provide local, accessible, and affordable dental care for the underserved communities in South Lake Tahoe.

Bridging the Dental Care Gap in the Basin

Until now, many families in South Lake Tahoe had to travel long distances—often to Placerville or beyond—to access dental care. This reality meant hours spent commuting, missed workdays for parents, and lost instructional time for children.

The new clinic changes that. Initially outfitted with up to seven dental stations, the facility can accommodate around 200 patients per month, with plans to double that number to 400 monthly patients as operations scale.

The site is strategically located to be accessible by public transit and foot, and includes ample parking for patients driving in from nearby areas. It also offers a sliding fee discount program for qualifying patients and accepts Medi-Cal Dental insurance, ensuring that cost is not a barrier to care.

A Community Collaboration Rooted in Equity

The creation of the clinic is the result of collaboration among three key entities: El Dorado Community Health Centers (EDCHC), Mountain Valley Health Plan, and El Dorado County Public Health.

Each partner plays a distinct role in ensuring the clinic’s success:

  • EDCHC brings clinical expertise and day-to-day operations
  • Mountain Valley Health Plan, the local Medi-Cal managed care organization, provides critical funding and oversight for access
  • El Dorado County Public Health offers strategic guidance on addressing disparities in health outcomes

According to Caleb Sandford, Chief Executive Officer of EDCHC, “The new dental clinic will serve all age groups, including children, adults, and seniors, and will be centrally located to provide easy access to local residents.”

This level of collaboration demonstrates a shared commitment to addressing both geographic and financial barriers to dental care—issues that have long plagued rural and mountain communities.

Oral Health Is Public Health

Healthcare experts in the region are emphasizing the long-term importance of oral health for overall wellbeing. Poor dental health can have lifelong implications, particularly for children and expectant mothers.

“Maintaining oral health care during pregnancy, childhood, and throughout life is important because the consequences of poor oral health can have a lifelong impact on overall health,” said Kyle Fliflet, El Dorado County’s Acting Director of Public Health.

Access to local dental care ensures that families are not forced to choose between employment, education, and health. By eliminating long-distance travel requirements, the clinic empowers families to make regular dental visits a routine part of their lives—rather than an infrequent, emergency-driven event.

Local Impact: Why It Matters Now

The new clinic directly responds to several persistent issues facing the South Lake Tahoe community:

  • Transportation difficulties: Families without reliable vehicles often rely on public transportation, which made dental visits out of town burdensome or altogether impossible.
  • Work-life conflicts: Parents and guardians frequently face challenges in securing time off work to bring children to appointments. A local clinic mitigates this by reducing travel time and scheduling conflicts.
  • Educational disruptions: Children often miss full school days when attending appointments far from home. The local availability of care helps preserve valuable classroom time.

“With this new facility, we are giving people the chance to prioritize their health without sacrificing income or education,” said Lizeth Granados, CEO of Mountain Valley Health Plan. “By investing in this partnership, Mountain Valley Health Plan will increase the availability of essential dental care for Health Plan members tailored to the needs of the community.”

Services Offered and What to Expect

Patients visiting the clinic can expect a welcoming, inclusive environment that serves all age groups. The services provided will include:

  • Comprehensive oral exams
  • Routine cleanings
  • Preventive fluoride treatments
  • Fillings and crowns
  • Simple extractions
  • Limited root canal procedures
  • Preventive education and follow-up coordination

The team will initially include two part-time dentists, with plans to scale up to two full-time dentists and one part-time dentist later this fall. They will be supported by a staff of six dental professionals, including dental assistants, a hygienist, and a receptionist.

New patients interested in receiving care are encouraged to call 530-497-5016 to schedule an appointment or ask questions about eligibility.

Addressing Health Equity Through Accessibility

Accessibility is more than just physical proximity. This clinic embodies the principle that healthcare should be delivered without prerequisites, restrictions, or stigma. That is why EDCHC’s model—embracing Medi-Cal, offering sliding scale fees, and centralizing location—matters.

“This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to improving access to oral health care and addressing disparities in the South Lake Tahoe region,” said Sandford.

By offering a true “dental home,” the clinic allows residents to establish ongoing relationships with providers, build trust, and engage in long-term preventative care rather than episodic treatment.

Looking Ahead: A Model for Regional Impact

As the clinic grows its patient load and adds capacity, it may become a model for other underserved communities across the Sierra and beyond.

The initiative demonstrates how public health departments, managed care plans, and community clinics can successfully work together to close the dental care gap in regions often overlooked by traditional healthcare infrastructure.

In communities like South Lake Tahoe—where natural beauty meets rural challenges—this type of investment in health equity is essential. It is not just about creating access to dental care. It is about empowering families, supporting student success, and improving quality of life at every stage.

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Agape Clinic Launches Free Dental Center in Dallas to Expand Access to Oral Health Care

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Agape Clinic Launches Free Dental Center in Dallas

In a bold move to address the growing need for accessible dental care, Agape Clinic, a long-standing nonprofit health provider, has officially opened a new free dental clinic in Dallas. Located at 4104 Junius Street, the clinic quietly opened its doors on September 28, and has already made a significant impact in the community.

What began with a handful of patients is now a bustling operation. According to Agape Clinic’s Executive Director Paul Hoffman, the dental center has scaled quickly from 20 patients in its first week to an average of 20 patients per day.

“Having quality access to dental care is a necessity,” Hoffman said. “There are so many people in our community who just don’t have the insurance or the money to be able to afford much-needed procedures and care.”


A Comprehensive Approach to Charitable Healthcare

Agape Clinic has served the Dallas community for decades with integrated, holistic care that spans medical, pediatric, and behavioral health. With the addition of dental services, Agape becomes the only charitable clinic in the DFW metroplex offering truly comprehensive healthcare without any barriers to entry.

Unlike many other charitable or sliding-scale clinics, Agape has no zip code requirements, no income verification, no insurance requirements, and no cost conditions. Patients are never turned away based on ability to pay.

“Agape Clinic understands that health is a fundamental right and that access to healthcare should be equitable for all,” said Hoffman. “Oral health is an essential component of overall health, and we are absolutely thrilled to expand our services to include dental care at no cost to our clients.”


Staffed and Scaling: Meet the Dental Team

Currently, the clinic is staffed with two part-time dentists and a team of six additional dental professionals, including:

  • A dental hygienist
  • Several dental assistants
  • A front-desk receptionist

By fall, the clinic plans to expand to a full-time dental team, including:

  • Two full-time dentists
  • One part-time dentist

This expanded team will allow the clinic to serve more patients each day and offer a broader range of services, from cleanings and fillings to more complex procedures.


Funding with Dignity: A Unique Model

Operating a dental clinic—even a charitable one—requires considerable funding. Fortunately, Agape Clinic has found support in an anonymous donor who funds approximately 90 percent of the clinic’s dental operations. The remaining costs are supported by smaller donors and contributions from patients who wish to give back.

“We ask patients to donate what they can,” said Hoffman. “It allows them to partner in their healthcare to help cover service costs.”

This patient-centered approach promotes dignity and agency, allowing individuals to contribute to their care in a way that feels meaningful, without feeling pressured or excluded.


Meeting a Critical Need in Dallas and Beyond

The demand for accessible dental care has only grown in recent years. Millions of Americans—especially those without insurance—go without preventive or emergency dental care due to high costs and limited access. In Dallas County alone, thousands of individuals live in dental deserts, areas with little to no access to dental services within a reasonable distance.

The Agape dental center provides a vital safety net for those who fall through the cracks of private insurance, Medicaid, or other public health programs.

With no paperwork hurdles or prerequisites, anyone can walk through the doors of the clinic and receive care with dignity.


What Patients Can Expect

Services offered at Agape’s dental center include:

  • Routine cleanings
  • X-rays and exams
  • Fillings
  • Extractions
  • Oral health education
  • Referrals for advanced procedures (as needed)

Each visit is conducted in a private, welcoming environment by dental professionals trained in trauma-informed and community-centered care.


A Vision for the Future of Charitable Dentistry

Agape Clinic’s model represents more than just another charitable service—it reflects a vision for healthcare equity. With plans to grow and deepen its dental offerings, the organization hopes to inspire similar initiatives across the state and nation.

Hoffman believes the clinic is only getting started.

“The need is there, and we’re doing everything we can to meet it,” he said. “Our goal is not just to treat symptoms but to transform lives through access, compassion, and community partnership.”


How to Support or Get Involved

Whether you’re a dentist, hygienist, assistant, or community volunteer, there are many ways to support Agape Clinic:

  • Donate to sustain free services
  • Volunteer your time or skills
  • Partner as a referring provider
  • Spread the word in underserved communities
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