For over five decades, the Del Mar College Dental Hygiene program has been a cornerstone in training dental healthcare professionals in the Coastal Bend area. This fall semester, the program is providing a range of clinical services at no cost to the community.
Empowering Smiles with Free Services
The services offered by the program include blood pressure screenings, conservative periodontal therapy, dental hygiene education, therapy, preliminary assessments, sealants, fluoride treatments, intra-oral examinations, medical history reviews, oral cancer screenings, periodontal assessments, radiographs, and selective polishing. Instructors like Josie Wilson, a program graduate from 1997, emphasize the importance of hands-on training for students preparing for their dental careers.
Hands-On Learning for Future Professionals
Second-year student Ana Chavez shares her enthusiasm for the program, highlighting how the hands-on experience has prepared her for a successful career in dental hygiene. All services provided are completely free of charge, regardless of income level, with patients assigned to student clinicians based on their individual needs and requirements.
Building a Healthy Community
The program aims not only to provide essential dental care but also to educate the community on preventive measures. Stephanie Higdon, a beneficiary of the program, praises the welcoming staff and students, encouraging others to take advantage of this opportunity for free dental services. Despite her own insurance coverage, Higdon stresses the importance of supporting the students and promoting dental hygiene education within the community.
Supporting Future Professionals
With 22 second-year students currently enrolled, the program will continue to offer free services until mid-December. Those interested in availing the services can contact the DMC Dental Clinic at 361-698-2854 or via email at dentalclinic@delmar.edu.