Students provide $5,000 in free oral care during event

Published 11.14.2023

Photos by Jennifer A. Cline, writer/magazine editor

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    Pennsylvania College of Technology’s dental hygiene program provided free oral care to 22 children and teens during a Sealant Saturday event on Nov. 4.

    “The future of our community’s oral health looks brighter, thanks to the hard work and dedication of our students and volunteers offering free dental services to children in need,” said Tiana L. Minnick, instructor of dental hygiene, who spearheaded the event. “It was a rewarding experience for everyone involved.”

    Pennsylvania College of Technology dental hygiene student Melina K. Petrick, of Falls Creek, reviews toothbrush techniques with a Sealant Saturday patient before beginning his exam. During the event, held Nov. 4 in the college’s Dental Hygiene Clinic, students and volunteers provided over $5,000 worth of free care to 22 patients.
    Pennsylvania College of Technology dental hygiene student Melina K. Petrick, of Falls Creek, reviews toothbrush techniques with a Sealant Saturday patient before beginning his exam. During the event, held Nov. 4 in the college’s Dental Hygiene Clinic, students and volunteers provided over $5,000 worth of free care to 22 patients.

    Dental hygiene students gained experience working with young patients in the college’s Dental Hygiene Clinic as they joined volunteers in placing 114 sealants. A sealant is a clear, protective plastic coating applied to the chewing surface of a back tooth to help prevent decay.

    In addition to sealants, 22 patients received a fluoride varnish treatment, and nine were referred for follow-up care.

    “The current cost for one dental sealant in Pennsylvania will range from $40 to $60, and fluoride treatments range from $20 to $50,” explained Shawn A. Kiser, director of dental hygiene. “So this year’s event provided over $5,000 worth of free care.”

    The college’s Dental Hygiene Clinic is also open during the week and provides a range of preventive care for a nominal fee. Appointments can be made by calling 570-327-4500.

    To learn about the college’s dental hygiene majors, call 570-327-4519.

    For information about Penn College, a national leader in applied technology education, email the Admissions Office or call toll-free 800-367-9222.

    Students Olivia M. Chaapel, of Columbia Cross Roads, and Mikey E. Strohm III, of Thompsontown, provide prophylaxis.
    Students Olivia M. Chaapel, of Columbia Cross Roads, and Mikey E. Strohm III, of Thompsontown, provide prophylaxis.
    Alexandra M. Shenk (left), of Jonestown, and Ashlyn M. Eyster, of York, gain pediatrics experience.
    Alexandra M. Shenk (left), of Jonestown, and Ashlyn M. Eyster, of York, gain pediatrics experience.
    A child shows some of the contents of her “gift bag”: a new toothbrush and a bottle of mouthwash.
    A child shows some of the contents of her “gift bag”: a new toothbrush and a bottle of mouthwash.
    KyLeigh L. Alexander (left), of Portage, and Julie K. Wangler, of Lancaster, engage their young patient in conversation as they provide care.
    KyLeigh L. Alexander (left), of Portage, and Julie K. Wangler, of Lancaster, engage their young patient in conversation as they provide care.
    Keeping everything sterile in the Infection Control Room is student Emmalee G. Marshall, of Woodland. She was joined in the behind-the-scenes duties by classmate Laura Lundberg, of Summerhill.
    Keeping everything sterile in the Infection Control Room is student Emmalee G. Marshall, of Woodland. She was joined in the behind-the-scenes duties by classmate Laura Lundberg, of Summerhill.
    Sarah L. Acel (left), of Franklin, and Lauryn T. Watson, of Elkins Park, apply sealants.
    Sarah L. Acel (left), of Franklin, and Lauryn T. Watson, of Elkins Park, apply sealants.

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