Pierce College dental hygiene students now scheduling spring appointments
We all know brushing and flossing regularly, and keeping up on twice-yearly cleanings and checkups are critical to maintaining a healthy, bright smile. But recent research has proved that good oral health plays an important role in reducing the risks of such health problems as heart disease and stroke, and in controlling diabetes.
Doctors now know that a healthy mouth contributes to an overall healthy body. Unfortunately, with roughly half of Washington residents lacking dental insurance, many put off or neglect dental cleanings and exams for lack of resources thereby putting their long-term overall health in jeopardy.
The Pierce College Dental Hygiene program helps eliminate this price barrier by offering gentle, qualified dental services at costs that are at least one-third of local consumer prices.
The dental hygiene program at Pierce College Fort Steilacoom offers a full range of dental health services, including:
• Comprehensive evaluation of oral health and teeth;
• Preventative teeth cleaning for both children and adults;
• X-rays;
• Sealants;
• Desensitizing;
• Treatment for adult patients with infrequent dental care;
• Treatment of adult periodontal disease (dependent on the extent of the disease);
• Amalgam (silver) or composite (white) fillings (dependent on severity).
Dental hygiene students are able to perform these and other critical services at a cost that is more manageable for working individuals and families, and seniors. The students practice under the guidance and expertise of the highly qualified dental hygiene faculty, and the dental hygiene clinic works with area dentists and other low-fee clinics to refer patients for additional follow-up care when necessary.
To access these lower-cost services, contact the Dental Hygiene program at (253) 964-6694 to schedule a free consultation. From there, if you are accepted for treatment in the program, a customized treatment plan will be devised and appointments will be scheduled.
Students schedule their own appointments with patients directly. Since the appointment times align with Pierce College’s academic calendar, this is a perfect time to get started, as the spring quarter begins March 31.
Payment is required at the time of service. Medicaid coupons are accepted.
To schedule an appointment or to learn more about a career in dental hygiene, please call (253) 964-6694 or visit the Dental Hygiene program Web site.
posted on March 25, 2008 @ 8:50 am
Jessica Turley, 18, of Buckley, began taking courses at Pierce College Puyallup through the Running Start program about a year and a half ago at the recommendation of friends who raved about the instructors. She has since discovered an interest in subjects, such as Russian history, that she never would have been exposed to otherwise, she said. Jessica now majors in history and has a 3.6 grade point average. She spends her non-academic hours actively involved with her church and with caring for her two younger sisters. Jessica plans to become an environmental lawyer.
Shane Foster, 25, of Puyallup, is not only a Pierce College Puyallup student and full-time media technician, he is also an aerospace medical technician for the 446th Aerospace Medical Squadron out of McChord Air Force Base. Shane started as a Pierce student out of necessity, he said. The college was affordable and close to home. He is now working towards his bachelor’s degree in Spanish. Ultimately, he hopes to teach Spanish both abroad and at Washington community colleges. Shane now has a 3.48 grade point average. He is a gifted musician and enjoys outdoor activities in his free time.
After her husband was injured, Diane Drapac, 47, of Spanaway, discovered that her experience handling the accounting for their two businesses was not enough to get her the job she needed to support her family. Diane decided to go back to school and began taking business classes at Pierce College Fort Steilacoom, where she now holds a work-study position as a student retention assistant and peer mentor. Diane has a 3.9 grade point average and she plans to become a financial planner. She has four children and is very active with her church and in the community.
Judith Jones, 53, also of Spanaway, became a student at Pierce College Fort Steilacoom following an intensive career transition program for displaced homemakers. She has since flourished, earning a 4.0 grade point average and majoring in education and natural science. Judith now serves in student government as a campus affairs senator and works as a community safety program coordinator for the Pierce County Sheriff’s Department. Judith’s ultimate goal is to become a teacher of geography and natural science.