Del Mar College is offering free dental services this spring through its Dental Hygiene and Dental Assisting programs, giving Coastal Bend residents access to care while students complete required clinical training.
The no-cost services are provided as part of hands-on instruction for students and are available now through early May. Because some treatments require multiple visits, patients are encouraged to sign up as soon as possible.
The clinics offer a wide range of dental health services, including medical history reviews, blood pressure screenings, oral examinations, preliminary dental and periodontal assessments, oral cancer screenings, X-rays, fluoride treatments when needed, selective polishing, conservative periodontal therapy, dental hygiene instruction, therapy services, and dental sealants.
“These clinics allow our students to gain essential clinical experience while serving the community,” said Eva Sepulveda, director of Del Mar College’s dental programs. She added that the program also emphasizes community service by providing care at no cost, particularly for individuals who may not otherwise be able to afford dental treatment.
The Dental Assisting Clinic operates every Thursday from 9 a.m. to noon and from 1 to 4 p.m. The Dental Hygiene Clinic is open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m., and on Fridays from 9 a.m. to noon. Clinics will be closed during Del Mar College’s spring break, March 9–14.
All procedures are performed by students under the supervision of faculty. Patient care often requires more than one visit, especially in the Dental Hygiene Clinic, where students must complete specific training hours.
Patient acceptance is based on the educational needs of the programs. Faculty members determine eligibility after a qualifying appointment.
The Dental Programs Clinic is located in Room 125 of Health Sciences Building 1 on the Windward Campus, 4101 Old Brownsville Road. More information about appointments and patient selection is available on the college’s website.