The Dental assistants at the Southern Ute Dental Clinic have a versatile role in improving the oral health of the community. They seat patients, take vitals, take radiographs, clean operatories, order supplies and assist the dentists in procedures. They are all trained as Periodontal Expanded Function Dental Assistants, which allows them to complete dental cleanings. They play a vital role in keeping the dental clinic running smoothly and in the delivery of quality dental care. 

There are a total of five full-time dental assistants working under Joe Baumgart, Supervisory Dentist for the Southern Ute Health Center. Their offices and the dental lab are located on Tribal Campus in Ignacio just south of the Health Center. Here’s an introduction to each of your dental assistants. 

My name is Brittney Harriman; I have lived in the Bayfield/Ignacio area my entire life. I started in the dental field nine years ago and have loved every second of it. I began working at the Southern Ute Dental clinic six years ago right when COVID hit. It has been an exciting adventure to see how the clinic and community have overcome such a huge pandemic. After going to college to become a teacher, I found myself realizing that I needed to be in a field that had more to do with helping the individual person and helping to change their lives. I continue to learn every year and love the community and family created by working for the Southern Ute Tribe. 

Hi, my name is Cassandra Tsosie, I am from Monument Valley, Utah. I have been a dental assistant for over 20 years. Working here has been great. What I enjoy the most is getting to know my patients and helping them overcome their fears of being in the dental chair. In my spare time I enjoy being outdoors with my kids and dog. 

Hi, my name is Deanne Peterson. I grew up In Durango and spent 30 years with the same dental practice before joining Southern Ute Dental in 2022. I enjoy helping patients get the smile they deserve. I also enjoy spending time outdoors with family and friends. 

Hello, my name is Kori Gilbert. I have been a dental assistant for over 20 years. I have been working for the Southern Ute Tribe dental clinic for almost four years. I enjoy serving the Southern Ute community. 

My name is Lavera Holly, and I am a proud member of the Diné tribe. I have been a dental assistant for 17 years and have recently expanded my experience by assisting in the optometry department. I’ve worked at the Southern Ute Indian Tribe for six years and have lived in Farmington, N.M. for the past thirteen years. I truly enjoy the work I do and the services we provide to our community, I admire the dedication within our team, and I’ve always appreciated being close to Colorado … one of my favorite places