Dental Students Gain Real-World Experience at HealthFinders Clinic

Orientation has begun for eight students from Mankato State University (MSU), who are embarking on a 13-week rotation in HealthFinders’ dental clinic. The annual fall tradition at HFC gives students crucial hands-on training in non-surgical periodontal therapy and full mouth debridement for HealthFinders patients. The students also gain experience working with diverse patients, which they may not encounter in another dental practice setting. HFC Dental Clinic Coordinator and Hygienist Renae Blome says she’s proud of the students and their accomplishments.

“As the HFC dental clinical instructor, it prides me to see the advancement in the delivery of care to the patients by these students over the course of their rotation. The students are gaining a wealth of confidence in providing specialized periodontal care. The amount of experience they receive while working in our clinic will last throughout their career in dental hygiene.” The students will be increasing their knowledge of reading and taking radiographs, administering anesthetic, triaging care and providing advanced gum care and education with the assistance of an interpreter. HealthFinders offers basic dental services, including exams, cleanings, sealants, fluoride applications, fillings, extractions and oral wellness education.