Some accredited dental hygiene programs operate public teaching clinics where students provide preventive care under supervision. Availability and fees vary by program.
What they do, and what they do not
A public dental hygiene teaching clinic may offer cleanings, X-rays, gum health assessments, fluoride, dental sealants and oral hygiene instruction. These clinics generally do not provide fillings, crowns, root canals, extractions, dentures, implants or emergency treatment.
For tooth pain, a broken tooth or restorative treatment, contact a community health center or dental school patient clinic. If you think what you have may be an emergency, seek emergency medical care rather than booking an appointment.
What it costs
Fees vary by program and may be lower than private practice. Appointments can take longer because an instructor checks the student’s work, and some programs follow an academic calendar. Confirm the fee, visit length and schedule before booking.
Sealants for children
Dental sealants are thin coatings placed in the grooves of back molars to help prevent decay. Some teaching clinics provide sealants and fluoride treatment for children. Confirm the ages accepted and current services with the program.
Before visiting a program
Confirm that a public clinic is operating, which services it offers, whether it accepts new patients and what it charges. The listed address may be the institution’s academic address rather than the patient clinic.