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Bringing Smiles: The Dental Bus Service

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Columbia College is committed to supporting the health and wellness of its students, and one unique way we do this is through our partnership with City Care Dental. Each summer, the Dental Bus parks on campus, offering free dental care to a select group of students. This initiative provides much-needed treatments, promotes oral health education, and connects students to low-barrier dental clinics in their communities.

Here’s everything you need to know about the Dental Bus and how it supports student health:

What is the Dental Bus?

The Dental Bus is a mobile dental clinic equipped with three modern dental chairs and staffed by licensed dentists, hygienists, dental assistants, and supervised dental students. This incredible team offers a full range of dental services to individuals facing financial or access barriers to dental care.

We collaborate with City Care Dental to bring this service to our main campus each summer during the June semester. The Dental Bus operates from morning until 5 pm, providing treatments all day.

How Does It Work?

Because of its popularity, appointments for the Dental Bus are offered via lottery. Students receive an email each spring with a dental health form to complete and return. Submitted forms are entered into the lottery, and selected students are scheduled for treatment.

What Services Are Offered?

Students can expect a variety of dental care services, including:

  • Dental cleanings
  • Tooth repair
  • Cavity correction

And here’s the best part: all treatments are completely free.

How Can Students Prepare?

To participate, students should watch for an email in the spring semester, complete the dental health form, and submit it to Nurses@columbiacollege.ca. Once selected, the City Care Dental team will create a personalized schedule for each student.

Why Is This Service So Important?

Dental care in Canada can be costly, making it inaccessible for many students. By providing free cleanings and cavity repairs, the Dental Bus helps students avoid pain, tooth decay, and expensive treatments in the future. Beyond immediate care, the initiative fosters healthier habits that can lead to long-term oral health benefits such as:

  • Healthier gums
  • Prevention of tooth loss
  • Early detection of dental problems
  • Improved overall health and self-confidence

Supporting Student Wellness

The Dental Bus is a perfect addition to Columbia College’s Mental Health and Wellness Week. Alongside the bus, the College offers free toothbrushes, dental floss, and educational resources to encourage proper oral hygiene for our students.

 

Comfort and Care for Anxious Students

For students who feel nervous about visiting the dentist, the Dental Bus team is known for their kind and patient approach. They take the time to explain every procedure and involve students in the decision-making process, ensuring a comfortable and reassuring experience.

How Does the Dental Bus Reflect Columbia College’s Values?

This initiative aligns with Columbia College’s commitment to health and wellness by addressing a critical yet often overlooked aspect of student health: oral care. By raising awareness, providing treatments, and fostering healthy habits, the Dental Bus contributes to a holistic approach to student support.

For more information about City Care Dental, visit their website at City Care Dental.

Don’t miss the chance to be part of this valuable initiative! Keep an eye on your emails in the spring semester to participate in the lottery and secure your spot. Let’s keep Columbia College smiling—one student at a time.