Bluestem Health is Closing the Gap in Dental Care

Since 2003, Bluestem Health has been a trusted place of care, dignity, and hope for individuals and families across our community. For many, we are a place where people feel seen, heard, and supported. Whether you need medical, dental, or behavioral health services, our goal has always been the same: to meet people where they are and help them move toward better health. As part of that commitment to a healthy community, we continue to look for meaningful ways to make dental care more accessible to individuals and families in Lincoln.

Health problems due to poor oral hygiene

Oral health is deeply connected to overall health, yet it’s often one of the most overlooked parts of a person’s well-being. It’s easy to put off a dental visit, especially when life is busy or finances are tight. Many people wait, hoping the pain will go away on its own. Delaying care can allow small problems to turn into bigger ones, not only for your teeth, but for your entire body. Poor oral health can lead to ongoing discomfort, difficulty eating, and even impact self-confidence and mental health.

In some instances, the consequences go far beyond what we can see or feel. A good example is gum disease or periodontitis that goes untreated. This condition causes chronic infection and inflammation in the gums, allowing bacteria to enter the bloodstream. Over time, that inflammation can contribute to serious health complications like heart disease, increasing the risk of clogged arteries, stroke, or worsening existing cardiovascular conditions. For individuals who aren’t able to access regular dental checkups, the underlying health risks go unnoticed for a long time.

Our Dental Services

Routine dental exams play a key role in maintaining your smile’s health and preventing tooth decay. Regular visits give our experienced team the chance to spot early signs of cavities, gum disease, and other oral health concerns before they become more serious. We recommend scheduling a comprehensive dental exam every six months to protect long-term health. Call 402-476-1640to get your appointment.

We offer a wide range of dental services, including:

• Dental Examinations
• Dental X-rays
• Occlusal Guard or Night Guard
• Periodontal Treatment
• Preventive Dentistry and Routine Teeth Cleaning
• Restorative Dentistry
• Root Canal Treatment

Every Thursday, patients can come to Bluestem Health’s Walk-in Clinic for Emergency Dental Care from 7:45 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Dental emergencies are often associated with urgent pain, such as a cavity, a broken tooth, or infection or laceration within the mouth. From fillings and teeth extractions to palliative treatments, our compassionate and experienced dental team is able to provide essential care to anyone who needs it.

Helping patients matters to us

Today, 82% of our dental patients are uninsured or rely on Medicaid. Each patient represents a neighbor, a parent, or a child who might otherwise have nowhere to turn for essential oral health care. It speaks to the important role Bluestem Health plays in providing access and equity in our community. For many, our dental clinic is their only option.

We know that cost can be one of the biggest reasons not to seek dental care. That’s why our sliding fee discount program is so important. It allows us to provide high-quality dental services at a reduced cost based on a patient’s income, making sure that finances don’t stand in the way of getting the care they need.

Bluestem Health’s dental clinic is a lifeline for individuals and families facing pain, uncertainty, and limited options. Every day, we see firsthand how critical this care is. Our dental team is committed to ensuring individuals don’t let pain go untreated so that conditions don’t worsen. Everyone deserves a beautiful smile, to feel well, and to live a healthier life.

To schedule an appointment, call 402- 476-1640.