Author: Emanouela Carlson, Carlson, D.D.S. – Associate Professor & Chair, University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine Author: Kasey Stutler, Clinic Coordinator Supervisor – Clinic Coordinator Supervisor Author: Karissa Gramly, Referrals Coordinator – Referrals Coordinator Author: Christine Forrester, Health Care Program Director – Health Care Program Director Author: Kathleen Michel, Communication Director – Communication Director Author: Pirin Becker, Program Manager – Program Manager, University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine Author: Erin Tatman, Finance/Accounting Senior Professional – Finance/Accounting Senior Professional Author: Mohammad Dahleh, Business Services Coordinator – Business Services Coordinator Author: Tracy L. de Peralta, Ph.D. – Sr Associate of Academic Affairs and Innovation, University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine Author: Lonnie Johnson, D.D.S., Ph.D. – Professor, Senior Associate Dean of Clinics and Professional Practice, University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine Submitter: Emanouela Carlson, D.D.S – Interim Chair Department of Surgery, University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine
Introduction: As the only dental school in Colorado, the CU School of Dental Medicine (CUSDM) is in a position to serve vulnerable populations. In those cases, even the discounted fees pose a financial barrier and patients are faced with a dilemma to either extract a tooth or save it with a root canal. The choice to extract for financial reasons is often the beginning of a failing dentition for the patient. CUSDM is committed to teaching dental students a strong foundation in endodontics, providing a broad, patient-based experience in diagnosis and management of endodontic disease, with an emphasis on case-selection, referral relationships, and mindful endodontic intervention, with the goal of saving natural teeth.
Objectives: In achieving this goal, in December 2019, we launched the Save-A-Tooth Program as a way to develop relationships with the dental community, and help patients save their natural teeth through root canals and appropriate direct restoration, for the price of an extraction.
Methods: To promote this initiative we employ multiple marketing tools (social-media, mailers, a feature by the local dental association and national endodontic association). Providers who identify underserved or vulnerable patients refer using a customized referral form. After an evaluation qualifying patient are treated in the Student Clinic, under the supervision of an Endodontist. Advanced techniques and technologies are utilized in an evidence-based approach. Upon completion of treatment and appropriate direct restoration, patients are referred back to their dental home for continuation of care.
Results: Since its inception, the program has served 90 patients, constituting 50% of our patient pool in Student Clinic in 2021.
Conclusions: This opportunity has enabled us to serve as allies for patients and providers contemplating extracting a tooth because of cost. It has underscored the critical role peer relationships and endodontics play in achieving and maintaining long term oral health.
