Phoenix College Dental Programs Host Third Cub Clinic for Pediatric Patients

Twice a year, the Phoenix College Dental Programs’ Cub Clinic makes an impact in the Arizona community by offering free preventive dental care to pediatric patients. This program aims to provide essential preventive dental services to local children, ensuring they receive the care they need to maintain healthy smiles.

Twice a year, the Phoenix College Dental Programs’ Cub Clinic makes an impact in the Arizona community by offering free preventive dental care to pediatric patients. This program aims to provide essential preventive dental services to local children, ensuring they receive the care they need to maintain healthy smiles.

The Cub Clinic offers preventive services, including routine checkups, cleanings, radiographs, fluoride treatments and proper oral hygiene education. These services are provided by Phoenix College’s dental assisting and dental hygiene students, who deliver care under the supervision of licensed professionals, giving them hands-on experience while also benefiting the community.

“We know how important it is for children to have access to preventative dental care,” said Rosa Querry, M.Ed., B.S.D.H., RDH, Program Director of Dental Hygiene at Phoenix College. “By offering these services twice a year, we hope to help families who may not be able to afford regular dental visits. Our goal is to help children start their oral health journey on the right foot, preventing future dental issues before they begin.”

Due to the high demand for free services, the Cub Clinic offers a limited number of appointments. These appointments are available on a first-come, first-served basis, with two opportunities each year for local families to schedule their child’s visit. The event is organized by dental program faculty and staff. Dental assisting honor students participate in the planning meetings too so they can learn about what it takes to plan community outreach events.  

“We were able to provide care for 43 patients in one day, which is incredible,” said Kristi Deela, M.H.A., B.S.Ed., CDA, CRFDA, CPFDA, Program Director of Dental Assisting at Phoenix College. “We are able to help not only our students with their program requirements, but the students are able to give kids an experience that will set their foundation for lifelong dental health. By partnering with our honor students, we are also hoping to develop future leaders in community outreach.”

For parents and guardians in the Phoenix area, the Cub Clinic’s free preventive dental care program offers an important opportunity to ensure their children’s dental health is on track. The clinic encourages families to take advantage of the program.

“We are so thankful to be able to come here to get our kids’ cleanings done,” said a local parent, whose children have participated in the program both times it was offered. “It’s great knowing they’re receiving quality care. The staff is always so helpful in helping us make sure we are taking care of their teeth at home too.”

The Cub Clinic hopes that this initiative not only provides valuable care to children in the community but also raises awareness about the importance of preventative dental practices in pediatric health.

Courtesy of Phoenix College Dental Programs