Over 50 Served at Capital Region Community Dental Event

    On October 5, more than 50 Capital Region residents received essential, free dental care at the Capital Region Community Dental Event. This initiative was held at Hudson Valley’s Robert H. Hill II Dental Hygiene Clinic and was an attempt to give oral healthcare to those in need. The mobile dental labs were provided by Kare Mobile 

     The event provided individuals with an oral health assessment along with screenings, x-rays, pain management guidance, and extractions. Those who needed more emergent care were referred to dental vans where volunteer dentists could help them. To ensure continuity of care, a community dental health coordinator met with each patient to develop a follow-up care plan. 

Overall, the goal of the event was to relieve patients of discomfort and create the foundations for good oral health amongst those who may be unable to access it. This was also a great collaboration between Dental hygiene and Dental assisting students that fosters mentorship. In addition, it gives the 63 dental Hygiene students, 3 Dental assisting students, and 2 dental Hygiene alumni who participated in the event more experience in the field. 

     Looking ahead, the New York State dental Foundation aims to replicate this community dental event model across the state. By continuing to engage in these vital initiatives, the foundation hopes to further improve access to dental care and health for communities in need.