MARY BALDASANO / SPECIAL TO THE PVT Pamela Patten, DDS, at right, and her staff at Frontier Family Dental. Advertisement

Have a toothache? Or perhaps one that just bugs you now and then?

Then let Frontier Family Dental take a look at it. Pamela Patten, DDS, opened her doors to patients this past December to help people take care of their dental problems.

Located at 1890 E. Calvada Blvd., near Dandelion Street, Patten and her staff know how to repair as well as prevent dental decay, in every age (however, babies may be referred).

Patten has lived in Pahrump since 1984, and had a salon in town. In 1992, she returned to school at Creighton Dental University, where she took her degree in dental health. She opened a public health clinic in northern Nevada in 2003 but returned here in 2006.

Patten said it's "important to improve rural dental health. I work at the patient's level of comfort, and educate my clients on dental care."

She will refer patients requiring extensive dental work to a specialist, as well as difficult children. She has the "gas" available for those who are frightened at the thought of seeing a dentist.

She not only treats dental problems, but provides education for motivating patients to want to prevent further problems. Risks and benefits of each treatment are given to help patients understand and participate in their care. "I would like to see patients cavity-free and prevent their occurrence through education," Patten said.

As part of the Central Nevada Oral Health Coalition, Patten works to improve the condition of oral health throughout the state by interacting with other coalitions.

The coalition identifies trends of dental problems in specific areas, as well as working with public organizations and private clinics to reduce and prevent dental problems.

Patten is also working to ensure children receive a sealant on their teeth by age 6, which will prevent losing their permanent teeth. This protective coating seals the area between teeth and prevents the start of decay. She also emphasizes that fluoride treatments are an essential part of dental health.

"Different kinds of bacteria affect teeth," says Patten. "Dental care either comes in steps or one treatment if a condition is severe," she adds.

Fermentable carbohydrates found in carbonated drinks and juice are detrimental to teeth as they are a cause of tooth decay; especially in young children who are still being bottle fed.

"I am providing a relaxing comfortable environment for young and aged. I want to help everyone improve and maintain a healthy mouth," said Patten.

For office hours and to schedule appointments, call 775-727-6006.