STCC to host sixth annual Community Dental Day, offering free treatment

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) will join forces with the Valley District Dental Society to host the sixth annual Community Dental Day on Saturday, April 27.

The event, which will be held at STCC, aims to provide free dental treatment to area residents who may not have access to regular dental care. Qualified STCC dental hygiene and assisting students, under the supervision of licensed dentists and dental hygienists, will administer the treatments.

Christopher Scott, the dean of the School of Health and Patient Simulation at STCC, emphasized the significance of the event, stating, “The Dental Hygiene Department offers the most affordable treatment in the Springfield area, but on Community Dental Day, the public has the opportunity to receive expanded treatment services free of charge.”

The dental hygiene clinic, located in Building 20 near the Pearl Street entrance, will be open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., with patient visits starting at 9 a.m.

During Community Dental Day, Valley District Dental Society licensed dentists, alongside STCC dental hygiene and assisting students, will provide patient education, health screenings, diagnosis, X-rays, dental fillings, extractions, and other types of urgent care at no cost.

Dr. Michael Nardi, an event organizer with the Valley District Dental Society, highlighted the importance of the partnership, stating, “The volunteer doctors feel they can provide a valuable service and help people that generally can’t find the care they seek.”

While cleanings will not be provided during the event, patients can schedule follow-up visits for routine cleanings and other treatments. Additionally, patients can return to STCC for low-cost follow-up care after Community Dental Day.

Community Dental Day is open to the public on a first-come-first-served basis. For any inquiries, individuals can contact (413) 755-4900.

STCC offers pathways to dental careers through its Dental Hygiene associate degree program and Dental Assisting certificate program. Through MassReconnect, individuals aged 25 and older have the opportunity to pursue these degrees for free.