BTC offers free dental clinic for students during summer quarter

Western students in need of dental care this summer will have an option for free care, as Bellingham Technical College's Dental Clinic is looking for volunteer patients to help the college's dental hygiene students build their patient care experience.

The services offered summer quarter will include exams, x-rays, simple cleanings and sealants. Appointments are available Mondays and Fridays from July 12- August 20. There are two times available, either 9:30 a.m. or 1:30 p.m., with appointment lasting about two and a half hours. 

The process begins with a limited dental examination and any necessary x-rays. After the examination process, patients will be presented with what treatment the clinic is able to provide. The clinic is looking for patients in need of simple cleanings (examples: patients who have never been told they have gum disease, who go to the dentist fairly regularly, etc.). The clinic reserves the right to decline any patient that is too difficult for a student, including complex medical conditions, behavioral conditions or extensive dental needs.

Because students are providing services, appointments may be longer than expected at a traditional clinic to ensure thorough care that is supervised and checked by licensed professionals. Children and adolescents may be completed in a single visit, however adults can expect care to take 2-3 appointments right now. Volunteers will be given an estimate of time needed for treatment once their initial screening is complete.

Students who are interested can contact the clinic at dental@btc.edu and indicate what days and times are best for an appointment.