The Dental College of Georgia (DCG) at Augusta University provides its dental students with extensive hands-on experience and community outreach opportunities through several volunteer programs and clinical initiatives.
Students gain real-world training under faculty supervision by treating urgent conditions in an Emergency Clinic, managing long-term patient care in a private-practice style Comprehensive Care Program, and offering free cleanings and dental education to local children on Give Kids a Smile Day. Additionally, students and faculty extend care to underserved populations by providing free screenings at the local flea market and Boys & Girls Clubs, as well as participating in international mission trips to countries like Peru, Mexico, and Nicaragua.
This clinic, staffed by senior dental students supervised by faculty, treats trauma, infections, inflammation and other conditions requiring immediate treatment. The clinic's walk-in patients receive excellent treatment while offering students a real-world environment in which to refine their skills.
The school's Comprehensive Care Program, staffed by seniors supervised by faculty, functions live a private dental office, matching patients with students who centralize their care. As the students form strong bonds with their patients and coordinate specialized treatment when necessary, they develop a strong sense of what the future holds if they pursue private practice.
In coordination with the American Dental Association, area dental professionals, faculty and students provide free dental cleanings, sealants, fluoride treatments, dental education, and in some cases, restorative treatment to Augusta-area children.