CCRI offers discounted and free dental services

Free dental cleanings at the Community College of Rhode Island.

“We see children, we see adults," said Kathleen Gazzola, director of the dental hygiene program at CCRI.

The visit includes a comprehensive oral exam, fluoride treatment, blood pressure screening and basic x-rays. There is a nominal charge for more extensive x-rays and sealants.

"I can't imagine going to a regular dentist and getting as thorough an exam as this,” said Barbara Cesario who’s been a regular at the clinic for 30 years now.

And because the students need the clinical hours,

"We want new patients,” said Gazzola.

Each visit here--about two hours, to ensure a thorough exam.

"We have, within each clinic, we have four instructors. We have a one to four faculty-student ratio. We always have a supervising dentist on board within the clinic for diagnostic purposes," said Gazzola.

Should there be a problem that requires dental work.

"We have a safety net list of providers that we can share with the patient so they can call them and many of them are community health centers,” said Gazzola.

Everyone leaving with the tools to keep their teeth healthy and clean, such as dental floss, a toothbrush and mouthwash.

"I would recommend this place to anyone,” said Cesario.

The dental hygiene clinic is located at CCRI's Lincoln campus with daily hours throughout the school year. They are not open during the summer session.

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