Do you want to have better teeth? Sure, we all do. Well now you can! The Dental Hygiene program at LBCC offers a more affordable alternative for routine dental treatments, right here on campus.
Instructor Tina Clarke and administrative assistant Debbie Hernandez were asked to provide more information on how the program works, also to ask, why do students want to know about it?
The program offers a comprehensive dental exam, teeth cleaning and fluoride treatment for $40 (seniors ages 60 and over receive a $10 discount), and a full series of x-rays for $25, after receiving a free initial evaluation. Other services such as sealants and bleaching can also be provided at discounted rates as well.
The Dental Hygiene program was started at LBCC in 2007, as a two year distance education program administered by Lane Community College. This has opened up an opportunity for students to receive this type of specialized training locally, without having to commute, and expands the talent pool for local businesses as well.
Admittance to the program is highly competitive and once the two year cycle has begun, no new students are admitted until the preceding class has graduated. The program is supported by grant funding and collects modest fees for services to offset the costs of supplies, enabling them to offer low cost services for the community. Services are provided year round, with the exception of the first month or two of every new class cycle.
Students in the program learn not only through lecture and coursework, but also through extensive hands on experience under the supervision of a licensed dentist. When asked whether she felt the program adequately prepared students for the workplace, student Jenny Tegner cited the over 50% hands on training the curriculum provides for as being a primary reason she feels confident she will graduate with the necessary skills. She also recommended the program to anyone who likes detail oriented, structured working environments that provide enough schedule flexibility to have a life outside of work.
Students Jenny Tegner (blue scrubs) and Hannah Brink (white jacket) demonstrate how to properly brush.
For prospective patients, to schedule an appointment call Debbie Hernandez at 541-917-4494. For students interested in participating in the program, additional information can be found at LCC's website.
At a glance:
When: Thursday and Friday afternoons
Where: Red Cedar Hall, room 211
Who for: Uninsured or under insured college students and adult community members
How much: $65 for exam and x-rays
Who to contact: Debbie Hernandez at the LBCC Dental Hygiene Clinic, 541-917-4494.
Your friendly cleaning staff; Heidi Elias (navy blue), Hannah Brink (light blue), Stevie Beard (green), Tina Clarke (gray t-shirt), Marilee Tennant (pink), and Jenny Tegner (gray scrubs).
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