Tallahassee State College Enhances Dental Hygiene Program

News Summary

Tallahassee State College (TSC) has upgraded its Dental Hygiene Program with a new lab featuring the latest technology. This enhancement aims to provide a high-quality education for future dental professionals while offering affordable dental care to the community. With a $1 million grant, TSC’s program boasts a 100% certification passing rate, preparing students effectively for careers in dentistry. The TSC Dental Hygiene Clinic also provides cost-effective services, making dental care accessible to locals, with plans to offer free services until the semester ends.

Tallahassee Welcomes Upgraded Dental Hygiene Program at TSC!

Big news for the folks in Tallahassee! The Tallahassee State College (TSC) is making waves in the community by enhancing its Dental Hygiene Program with a shiny new lab equipped with the latest technology. This upgrade is not just about flashy new toys; it’s about creating a top-notch educational experience for future dental professionals and providing affordable dental care for everyone around.

A Classroom with a Modern Touch

Currently, there are about 50 students bustling around TSC’s Dental Hygiene Program, where they are gearing up for a bright future in the dental field. Among them is Terah Young, who at 41, is the oldest in her class. Having transitioned from a career in nursing, she is excited about this new chapter. This program isn’t just about books and lectures; it’s all about hands-on experiences. The new dental lab, which officially opened this fall, boasts advanced equipment like ultrasonic scanners and realistic simulators, allowing students to learn practically.

The lab upgrade took just over a year and was supported by a generous $1 million grant from the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund. This investment ensures that students not only gain knowledge but also vital skills that make them job-ready.

All About the Students

The demand for dental hygienists and assistants is on the rise, and TSC prepares its students to meet that demand head-on. The program has seen stellar performance in recent years, holding a 100% certification passing rate. Each cohort can accept up to 30 dental hygiene students. Right now, the first-year class is buzzing with 27 students, while the second-year group includes 24 students. In addition, there are 12 aspiring dental assistants ready to make their mark.

For those unfamiliar with the roles, dental hygienists mainly work independently while dental assistants support dentists during procedures. The starting salary for dental hygiene graduates averages around $67,870, whereas dental assistants can expect about $41,170. The potential for stability and growth in this field is significant and certainly enticing to many.

Affordable Care for Everyone

The TSC Dental Hygiene Clinic is a shining example of community service, providing affordable dental care to locals. The clinic operates on an appointment-only basis and accepts patients based on the students’ expertise levels. It offers a variety of services at incredibly low prices: standard cleanings and X-rays are capped at $15, single-tooth X-rays can be had for a mere $5, and dental examinations are completely free! No insurance? No problem! Cash payments are welcome, making services accessible to all.

In the spring semester alone, the clinic has successfully cared for between 150 to 200 patients weekly. This meaningful work allows students to practice their skills while also providing invaluable services to the community.

Students with a Passion for Change

Students like Terah Young are thrilled to dive into patient care, especially after spending years in the mental health field. Another enthusiastic student, Sereena Kurdi, has her eyes set on improving the oral health of children and making a difference in their lives through this program. Josh Gowen, at just 23, made the leap from nursing to dentistry after shadowing a dental hygienist. The experiences ignited his passion for this essential trade.

Moreover, TSC’s dental clinic is buzzing with interest from students needing dental care at reduced costs, making it a win-win situation for everyone involved. And as a cherry on top, TSC has announced plans to offer free dental services to the community until the end of the semester.

As the leaves turn in Tallahassee, the excitement surrounding TSC’s innovative strides in its Dental Hygiene Program is sure to leave a lasting mark on both the students and the community. It’s a fantastic opportunity for aspiring dental professionals, and the community couldn’t be more grateful!