Rhodes State College Dental Hygiene Clinic

The Rhodes State College Dental Hygiene Clinic is an integral part of the Rhodes State College's accredited Dental Hygiene program. Situated at 4258 Campus Dr, Lima, OH 45804, this state-of-the-art 12-chair facility is designed to provide hands-on clinical experience for students while offering essential and affordable dental hygiene services to the community. Established in 1976, the program and its clinic are accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) of the American Dental Association, ensuring high standards of quality in both education and patient care. The clinic's primary mission is to prepare competent oral healthcare professionals. Dental hygiene students, under the rigorous supervision of licensed dental hygienists and dentists, perform a range of preventive services. These services include oral prophylaxis (teeth cleaning, scaling, and polishing), topical fluoride treatments to prevent decay, dental radiographs (X-rays), pit and fissure sealants, and comprehensive preventive patient education that covers oral hygiene techniques and dietary counseling. Additionally, the clinic conducts general and oral health assessments, including screenings for dental caries, periodontal disease, and oral cancer, along with thorough reviews of medical and dental histories. While providing valuable services to the public, it's important for patients to note that, due to the learning environment, appointments may be lengthier than in a private dental practice, often requiring multiple visits. The clinic welcomes patients from the community, campus, and surrounding areas. It offers a nominal fee structure, with specific discounts for Medicaid patients (with a valid card), veterans, active military personnel, and current Rhodes State College and OSU Lima Campus students and employees. The clinic operates according to the academic calendar, and adult patients (13 and older) typically undergo a screening appointment before scheduling services. Children aged 3-12 are also accepted, with no screening required, but parental consent is mandatory. The Rhodes State Dental Hygiene program emphasizes a holistic approach to patient care and communication, preparing students not only with technical skills but also with a strong understanding of patient needs. Graduates consistently perform well on national board examinations, reflecting the quality of education and clinical training received at the facility.