PRINCE GEORGE – A new partnership between Prince George Emergency Dental Outreach Clinic and the College of New Caledonia (CNC) is creating additional opportunities for dental care services to those in need.
The Emergency Dental Outreach Clinic currently offers restorative dentistry services a few times a year at the Prince George Native Friendship Centre for those with limited finances. Local dentist and founding director of the Emergency Dental Outreach Clinic Dr. Richard Wilczek said the group has been searching for ways to expand its services year-round.
“That’s why I’m so excited about our partnership with CNC’s dental program,” he said. “I hope this partnership continues and grows to provide both a valuable learning experience for CNC dental students and increased access to dental care for people who’ve experienced challenges accessing it.”
Working with community dentists, CNC dental assistant students get first-hand assisting practice while dental hygiene students are able to meet some of their course requirements by providing local anesthetic to patients.
“CNC’s dental studies students are training to become health professionals,” said CNC Interim Associate Dean of Health Sciences Wendy Male. “Part of becoming a health professional is understanding the responsibility we have to help those most in need in our community.”
To further support students, the Prince George Emergency Dental Outreach Clinic donated $10,000 from a provincial operational grant supporting not for profit dental clinics to the CNC dental studies programs to support the costs associated with the Collaborative Care Clinics.
“The Prince George Emergency Dental Outreach Clinic does essential work in our community,” said CNC President Dr. Dennis Johnson. “I’m thankful to all the dentists who have not only helped educate CNC students but also made this generous donation that will further support the dental studies programs.”
The Prince George Emergency Dental Outreach Clinic hosted three clinics at CNC in the fall with clinics continuing in February and March.