Montezuma County residents will have expanded access to dental care this August. Dr. Tyson Grose, DDM, has joined the Axis Health System staff as a general dentist at Cortez Oral Health Clinic (COHC). He will begin seeing patients in mid-July four days a week.

Axis Health System Oral Health Manager Meganne Damon said adding Dr. Grose to the team helps fill a gap in the county’s healthcare options. “Our underserved population has a strong need for oral healthcare. Bringing the clinic to full time is a nice addition to the community.” Dr. Grose will accept patients with Medicaid, CHP+, self-pay and people who are underinsured or uninsured. A sliding-fee scale is available for those who qualify. Most private insurance is now accepted at the clinic.

Dr. Grose was born in Sandy, Utah, and is a graduate of Utah Valley University. He obtained his dental degree at the University of Louisville School of Dentistry. Dr. Grose lives in Cortez with his wife, son and two dogs. He loves exploring the beautiful desert and mountains in the surrounding areas, especially by riding dirt bikes and fly fishing.

Dr. Grose realizes that every person has a unique health story. He focuses on listening to his patients’ needs and tailoring treatment to meet those specific needs. “I know the impact that a person’s oral health can have on both overall body health and mental health,” said Dr. Grose. “I look forward to coordinating with other health professionals to treat patients as a whole person, rather than just another case.”

Other changes to Axis Health System’s dental care services include:

• Both Cortez Oral Health Clinic and Durango Oral Health Clinic now accept most private insurance – a change as of June 2021. Damon recommends that patients call their insurance provider before making an appointment to confirm they are a carrier.
• Two additional staff members have joined the COHC team: Receptionist Nadine Frisbie and Dental Assistant Katie Stanback. Axis is seeking an additional dental assistant and a dental hygienist. Interested applicants may apply here.
• Starting in late July, Cortez Oral Health Clinic will be open Tuesday through Friday. Dental care is also currently available at Dove Creek Integrated Healthcare on Monday through Thursday. “This combination of days means any patient with an emergent issue can come in five days a week,” said Damon. For dental appointments in Dove Creek, call 970.677.3644.
• The COHC facility has been upgraded with new dental chairs, flooring and lab equipment.

Cortez Oral Health Clinic is located at 101 South Maple Street, Suite B in Cortez. In late-July, it will be open Tuesday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. New patients of all ages are being accepted, “toddler to grandma,” said Damon. To make an appointment, call 970.565.1800. For more information about Axis Health System, visit AXIShealthsystem.org.