Missouri has 6 accredited dental hygiene programs in Joplin, Kansas City, Sedalia, Springfield, St. Louis. Confirm public clinic availability and appointments with each program. For treatment beyond preventive care, see the Missouri community health centers.
Which of these you need
Dental hygiene teaching clinics focus on preventive care such as cleanings, X-rays, gum assessments, fluoride and sealants. They generally do not provide fillings, extractions or crowns. For treatment beyond preventive care, use a community health center or dental school patient clinic.
What a visit involves
Appointments may take longer than a private cleaning because an instructor checks the student’s work. Programs may limit appointments to weekday academic schedules or require more than one visit.
Some programs screen patients before accepting them. Confirm screening requirements, current fees, appointment length and the patient clinic address before visiting.
Preventive care for children
Some teaching clinics provide fluoride treatments and dental sealants for children. Confirm the ages accepted and services available. Children enrolled in Medicaid have dental coverage as a required benefit, including in Missouri.
Understanding accreditation status
Accreditation applies to the educational program. It does not confirm that a public patient clinic is currently operating or accepting appointments.