Less than one-third of Utah dentists are accepting Medicaid and CHIP patients according to “Utah Dentist Workforce 2017: A Study on the Supply and Distribution of Dentists in Utah.” That leaves many struggling to find service. Utah Valley University’s Dental Hygiene Clinic provides care to those who need it at bargain prices.

 

“We offer dental services at a fraction of the cost of a private dental practice. So those who don't have insurance get an incredible deal,” says Dianne Knight, chair of the Department of Dental Hygiene. While the clinic is located at Utah Valley University and open to students there, it is also available to the public.

 

The clinic’s primary purpose is to educate dental hygiene students to become competent professionals and increase the public’s awareness of oral health.

 

Maren Crowley, a recent graduate of the program, said it allowed her to “serve those who did not have the means, or proper access to dental care in [her] community.”

 

Crowley says she came away from UVU’s dental hygiene program with a “strong desire to serve the community and build up the profession.” She says the faculty’s encouragement, knowledge, availability of top-of-the-line equipment, and opportunities to serve helped her succeed as a dental hygienist.   

 

The UVU clinic opens its doors to patients starting Thursday, August 23. It is part of the engaged learning process within the Department of Dental Hygiene at Utah Valley University. Because the clinic is a learning environment, services may take longer. All work performed by students is checked by instructors. “If you have more time than money, it’s a great place to go,” Knight said.

 

The clinic is open to patients on Tuesdays and Thursdays. To schedule an appointment, call 801-863-7608. A list of services offered and prices can be found online at https://www.uvu.edu/dental/clinic.html.

 

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About Utah Valley University

At 37,282 students and growing, Utah Valley University is the largest public university in the state of Utah, and one of a few in the nation offering a dual-mission model that combines the rigor and richness of a first-rate teaching university with the openness and vocational programs of a community college. UVU’s unique model, which focuses on student success, engaged learning, rigorous academic programs, and faculty-mentored research, is transforming higher education by making it more affordable and accessible to students of all backgrounds.

 

University Marketing & Communications:

Scott Trotter

801-863-6807 | scott.trotter@uvu.edu

Barb Smith

801-863-5274 | barbara.smith@uvu.edu