News Summary Tallahassee State College has introduced a Restorative Functions for Dental Auxiliary Certification Program in celebration of its 50th anniversary. Developed with the Florida Dental Association, the program aims to address a backlog of dental professionals awaiting training in Florida. Beginning October 31, the program combines online learning with hands-on training, covering essential restorative dental skills. TSC’s state-of-the-art dental simulation lab enhances practical learning opportunities, and the school has also been designated as a testing site for the National Board Dental Hygiene exam. TALLAHASSEE, Florida – In celebration of the 50th anniversary of its dental program, Tallahassee State College (TSC) has launched a new Restorative Functions for Dental Auxiliary Certification Program. This initiative, developed in partnership with the Florida Dental Association, aims to address the significant backlog of 300 dental professionals currently on a waitlist for training in Florida. The announcement was made during a press conference on September 16 at TSC’s dental simulation lab. TSC made history by becoming the first college within the Florida State College System to serve as a training site for dental assistants and hygienists. This certification course is particularly vital as previous training for restorative dental care was solely available at the University of Florida, currently experiencing the same backlog. The Restorative Functions for Dental Auxiliary Certification Program is set to commence on October 31 and is open to dental assistants, hygienists, and dentists. The course combines an online curriculum with hands-on clinical training, covering essential topics such as cavity preparation, adhesive restorations, and placement of stainless-steel crowns. Drew Eason, the CEO of the Florida Dental Association, emphasized that this collaboration represents a crucial opportunity for advancing dental education and responding to workforce needs in the state. TSC’s commitment to excellence is demonstrated by a remarkable 100% certification passing rate in its Dental Hygiene Program over the years. The program is enhanced by TSC’s state-of-the-art dental simulation lab and clinic, which supports practical learning opportunities for students while delivering affordable dental care to the community. Services at the TSC Dental Clinic are available at a maximum cost of $15, with some treatments offered for free until the end of the semester, enabling accessible dental options for patients. In addition to the launch of the new certification program, TSC has been designated as an American Board of Dental Examiners (ADEX) testing site for the National Board Dental Hygiene licensure exam. Previously, students had to endure a three-hour drive to Pensacola to take the ADEX exam, making this local opportunity especially valuable for aspiring dental professionals. Currently, there are 27 first-year and 24 second-year students enrolled in TSC’s dental hygiene program. The establishment of the new dental lab was supported by a $1 million grant from the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund, underscoring TSC’s commitment to enhancing educational resources in response to community needs. The dental program continues to operate as a vital service for the community, providing comprehensive dental services such as cleanings and x-rays at significantly lower costs compared to private practices. As part of its 50th anniversary celebration, TSC is also launching a Heroes in Healthcare awards program, further showcasing its dedication to the advancement of healthcare education and the recognition of exceptional contributions within the field. Tallahassee State College’s new certification program and ongoing commitment to accessible dental care highlight the institution’s pivotal role in shaping the future of dental education and service in Florida. With a proactive approach to addressing workforce demand, TSC is well-positioned to contribute to the growth of skilled dental professionals in the state. Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic HERE Resources Forensic Audit Reveals $1.8 Billion Accounting Error in South Carolina Tallahassee State College Enhances Dental Hygiene Program Additional Resources TSC Dental Program Celebrates 50th Anniversary Wikipedia: Dental Program Tallahassee State College Dental Lab Prepares Students Google Search: Tallahassee State College Dental Program Free Cleanings & Low-Cost Dental Care by TSC Students Google Scholar: Dental Education Florida Medicaid Expansion on Horizon: Florida Lawmakers Take on Scope Battles Encyclopedia Britannica: Dental Auxiliary LIBERTY Dental Plan Donates to Support Hurricane Relief Efforts Google News: Tallahassee State College Dental Clinic
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