STCC to host Community Dental Day on April 27
Students provide treatment under supervision of dentists on Community Dental Day.
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – Springfield Technical Community College dental hygiene program and the Valley District Dental Society will co-host their sixth annual Community Dental Day on Saturday, April 27, 2024.
The event at STCC provides an opportunity for area residents who might not be receiving any dental care to obtain free treatment and to schedule follow-up visits.
Christopher Scott, dean of the School of Health and Patient Simulation at STCC, said that qualified STCC dental hygiene and assisting students will treat patients under the supervision of licensed dentists and dental hygienists.
“The Dental Hygiene Department offers the most affordable treatment in the Springfield area, but on Community Dental Day the public has the opportunity to receive expanded treatment services free of charge,” Scott said. “If you have been putting off seeing a dentist, save the date and come to STCC on April 27.”
The dental hygiene clinic is located in Building 20 at STCC near the Pearl Street entrance. Its hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Patient visits will begin at 9 a.m.
The Dental Hygiene Department offers the most affordable treatment in the Springfield area, but on Community Dental Day the public has the opportunity to receive expanded treatment services free of charge.Christopher Scott, Dean, School of Health and Patient Simulation
Valley District Dental Society licensed dentists, together with STCC dental hygiene and assisting students, will offer patient education, health screenings, diagnosis, X-rays, dental fillings, extractions and other types of urgent care. There is no charge for any treatment.
STCC offers pathways to dental careers through two programs. Students can seek a two-year associate degree in Dental Hygiene or a one-year certificate in Dental Assisting. Through MassReconnect, students that are 25 years of age and older have the ability to receive those degrees for free.
“We are delighted to once again partner with STCC to provide free dental treatment to the community,” said Dr. Michael Nardi, an event organizer with the Valley District Dental Society volunteer dentists. “The volunteer doctors feel they can provide a valuable service and help people that generally can’t find the care they seek.”
Valley District Dental Society is a supporter of STCC through generous financial support through scholarships and dental kits.
Services offered at the STCC Dental Hygiene clinic on Community Dental Day include such treatment as fillings, extractions, sealants and taking care of urgent issues.
Nardi said cleanings will not be provided but anyone visiting the clinic can schedule a follow-up visit for a routine cleaning.
While Community Dental Day will be free, patients can return to STCC for low-cost follow-up care. STCC’s dental hygiene clinic on the second floor of Building 20 offers routine cleanings and various procedures year-round at a reduced cost to residents of the Greater Springfield area.
Community Dental Day is open to the public on a first-come-first-served basis. Please call (413) 755-4900 if you have questions.
Interested in applying to STCC? Visit stcc.edu/apply or call Admissions at (413) 755-3333.
About Springfield Technical Community College
STCC, the Commonwealth's only technical community college, continues the pioneering legacy of the Springfield Armory with comprehensive and technical education in manufacturing, STEM, healthcare, business, social services, and the liberal arts. STCC's highly regarded workforce, certificate, degree, and transfer programs are the most affordable in Springfield and provide unequaled opportunity for the vitality of Western Massachusetts. Founded in 1967, the college – a designated Hispanic Serving Institution – seeks to close achievement gaps among students who traditionally face societal barriers. STCC supports students as they transform their lives through intellectual, cultural, and economic engagement while becoming thoughtful, committed and socially responsible graduates.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Jim Danko, (413) 755-4812, jdanko@stcc.edu