As part of National Health Center Week and our theme, Planting the Seeds for Better Health, we're highlighting Community Health Centers that are expanding access to oral healthcare and helping patients build healthy habits that last a lifetime. Today, we're featuring Rural Medical Services and its growing dental program, which is bringing much-needed dental care closer to home for families in East Tennessee.
The following insights are shared by Landree Watts, EFDA, Dental Manager for Rural Medical Services, who discusses the organization's commitment to improving access to preventive dental care and removing obstacles for patients across the region.
Access to quality dental care is an essential part of overall health, but for many families in rural communities, finding affordable dental services close to home can be a challenge.
To address this need, Rural Medical Services (RMS) has expanded its dental program to ensure patients have access to preventive and restorative dental care where they live and work. After launching dental services at its Chestnut Hill location in 2022, RMS opened a dental clinic in Dandridge in December 2023 and expanded again with a second location in Jefferson City in 2026.
For an organization that has served East Tennessee for more than 46 years, the decision to grow dental services was about continuing to increase access to essential services for their communities.
Many adult self-pay patients and pediatric TennCare patients previously had to travel more than an hour and a half to access dental services. By bringing care closer to home, Rural Medical Services is helping patients receive the preventive care they need before small issues become bigger health concerns.
Today, the RMS dental team includes dentists Dr. Janey Chon, DMD and Dr. Eleisha Nickoles, DDS, along with dedicated hygienists, assistants, and support staff who share a common goal: helping every patient achieve a healthy smile that lasts a lifetime.
The team's focus is on preventive care and basic restorative services, ensuring that children and adults alike have access to routine exams, cleanings, education, and treatment. Just as importantly, providers take time to educate patients about the connection between oral health and overall health.
Poor oral health can contribute to a variety of health concerns, making prevention and early intervention critical to long-term wellness. By helping patients understand the importance of regular dental care, the RMS team empowers individuals to take an active role in their health.
That commitment to education and prevention reflects Rural Medical Services' mission of providing "Better Care for a Better Life." Every exam, cleaning, and conversation is an opportunity to help patients avoid future complications and enjoy healthier lives.
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