Living in rural Wyoming has its perks. From breathtaking scenery to friendly communities, it’s hard to imagine calling anywhere else home. But one of its greatest perks can also be a setback: distance from civilization.
It may not bother you to drive miles to buy groceries, but basic health services can be quite the commute—including dental care.
In Wyoming, there are 23 large counties that are in need of a dentist (and one that doesn’t have a single dentist), and this lack of access drastically affects our communities. People living in the country have higher rates of untreated decay, are twice as likely to have tooth loss and a lower commitment to consistent dental care.
How can a small-town smile stay healthy? Here are 3 tips:
1. Commit to a routine.
Eating right and committing to a good dental routine helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease. But it’s also important to have your teeth checked by a professional.
Even if the nearest dentist is far away, it’s still important to make an appointment every 6 months. Find the dentist nearest you and schedule your next appointment.
2. Seek out resources.
If a dentist is difficult to find, or if care is out of your budget, find out if any universities or non-profits provide dental care in your area.
3. Do not “do-it-yourself.”
You’re probably handy and know how to fix everything yourself. But when it comes to dental care, you could cause a lot more harm than good. It’s best to leave it to a professional.
