Chippewa Valley Technical College - Dental Clinic

The Chippewa Valley Technical College (CVTC) Dental Clinic, located within the Health Education Center in Eau Claire, WI, is a unique dental facility that operates as both a community resource and a hands-on learning environment. In partnership with the Marquette University School of Dentistry, the clinic's primary purpose is to educate future dental professionals, including CVTC Dental Hygiene and Dental Assistant students, and recent Marquette University School of Dentistry graduates completing fellowships. All services are performed under the direct supervision of licensed dental professionals. The clinic is dedicated to providing inexpensive dental care, particularly for low-income individuals and Medicaid patients, with fees significantly lower (about one-third to one-half) than those of private dental offices. While not a free clinic, it aims to serve community members who lack a dental home due to financial constraints. A wide range of dental services is offered, including comprehensive cleaning services (health history, oral exams, head and neck cancer screenings, periodontal health assessments, X-rays, dental cleanings/deep scaling, fluoride treatments, and dental health education). For low-income and Wisconsin Medicaid patients, additional services such as fillings, dentures, root canals, extractions, crowns, and bridges are available. The CVTC Dental Clinic emphasizes a patient-centered approach within its educational framework. Patients are informed that appointments may be longer due to the learning nature of the clinic, and their patience is appreciated. The facility is equipped with a new Delta Dental of Wisconsin Dental Simulation Lab, which enhances student learning and increases the clinic's capacity to serve more patients, particularly those with low income. This simulation lab allows students to practice and master skills in a less intimidating environment before working with actual patients. The clinic accepts Wisconsin Medicaid Assistance, debit/credit cards, cash, and checks. Cleaning services have a set fee, with a lower co-pay for Wisconsin Medicaid or Badger Care patients. Reduced rates are also available for those meeting federal low-income guidelines, requiring proof of income. CVTC Dental Clinic is committed to accessibility, providing free aids and services for people with disabilities and free language services for those whose primary language is not English. The clinic operates Monday-Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Thursday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. It plays a vital role in the Chippewa Valley community by addressing critical dental care needs and contributing to the training of a skilled dental workforce.