Practice Highlight
John P. Poovey, DMD, DICOI, FADIA, MAAIP
Dr. Poovey has been awarded diplomate with the International Congress in Oral Implantology, Mastership with the American Academy of Implant Prosthodontics, and Fellowship with the International Academy for Facial Esthetics. He has been in practice in Grand Junction for 22 years.
Dr. Poovey has been chosen to be a key opinion leader for the Zest fixed solution, co-developer of a medical billing software system, and a national leader in medical necessity-based dentistry. He is the winner of the 2023 American Academy of Osseo Integration Innovation Award for a digital workflow system for fixed implant solutions.
By Briney Beck
Nestled in the heart of Grand Junction Dr. John Poovey’s and Dr. Brandon Wilcox’s dental practice stands as a beacon of innovation and patient-centered care. With cutting-edge technology, a commitment to excellence, and a passion for community health, they have built a practice that’s not only a leader in dentistry but also a pillar of the community. We had the privilege of sitting down with Dr. Poovey to learn more about his journey, his facility, and what sets their practice apart.
Briney: Dr. Poovey, thank you for speaking with us. Let’s start with the background of your facility. Can you tell us about it?
Dr. Poovey: Of course. I purchased the office in 2013, and in 2014, we completed a full remodel, consolidating two offices into one state-of-the-art facility. Today, we have seven operatories, a CBCT scanner, X-nav virtual guide, and full CAD/CAM capabilities, including CEREC and Prime Scan technology. We also have in-house mills and printers, as well as the ability to perform PRP and PRF treatments, and even blood work, all under one roof. Our reception area is beautiful and welcoming, setting the tone for the advanced care we provide. Additionally, we’re a Nobel Center for Excellence and have worked directly with ZEST as a Key Opinion Leader.
Briney: That sounds impressive. Can you share a bit about your background and what led you to dentistry?
Dr. Poovey: I started my career in general dentistry in 2001. Early on, I had the opportunity to work closely with oral surgeons, which exposed me to the transformative potential of implant dentistry. I noticed two emerging trends that I knew would shape the future of the field: CAD/CAM technology and implant dentistry. I dove in, and it quickly became a passion of mine. I’ve loved every step of the journey.
Briney: What are you most proud of in your practice?
Dr. Poovey: I’m incredibly proud that we’ve elevated dentistry to be able to provide the highest level of medically necessary dentistry. This shift has allowed us to provide a much higher standard of care and broaden access for our community. We’ve also become experts in navigating medical insurance, which has enabled us to integrate seamlessly into the broader healthcare system and collaborate with other physicians. This integration has been a game-changer for our patients and the community as a whole.
Briney: Every practice faces challenges. What have been the biggest ones for you?
Dr. Poovey: Navigating medical insurance and payor systems has been a significant challenge. It’s taken a tremendous amount of research, trial and error, and sheer tenacity to overcome. We’ve worked tirelessly to develop legal and clinical strategies that standardize and apply the concept of medical necessity to oral surgery correctly. It’s been a journey of blood, sweat, and tears, but the results have been worth it.
Briney: What sets your practice apart from others?
Dr. Poovey: One of the things that truly sets us apart is our direct collaboration with Nobel’s lab to provide prosthetics. This partnership allows us to offer a 10-year guarantee on our work, backed by the advanced technology and precision we bring to every case. Combined with our comprehensive in-house capabilities, we’re able to provide an unparalleled level of care and results.
Briney: Looking ahead, what does the future hold for your practice?
Dr. Poovey: We’re currently exploring the intersection of sleep apnea treatment and medical oral health care to better serve our patients. Medically necessary oral surgery is a massive benefit to the community and can significantly reduce overall healthcare expenses. We’re also focused on continuing to showcase the importance of these services and pulling back the curtain on how they can be done legally and effectively. The goal is to ensure every patient has access to the care they need while setting a new standard in dentistry.
Briney: What made you decide to partner with Nexus Dental Systems?
Dr. Poovey: We chose to partner with Nexus because of similar ideologies. Increasing and improving patient care and access through improved modalities of access to work within the medical system, and payors.
Briney: Thank you so much, Dr. Poovey, for sharing your insights and the incredible work you’re doing.
Dr. Poovey: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure to share our story, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to highlight how dentistry can make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
