TMCC welcomes Jennifer Link as new manager of the Dental Hygiene Clinic, which is scheduled to reopen with the start of Fall Semester.
Jennifer Link, a Truckee Meadows Community College alumna and former Nevada Air National Guardsman, is the new clinic manager at TMCC’s Dental Hygiene Clinic, Red Mountain Building, room 415.
Before receiving her Associate of Science degree from TMCC in 2002, Link was an Air Transportation Specialist for the Guard. She served in NVANG from 1998-2005, and following her discharge served for about one year in the Air Force Inactive Reserve. Link loaded and checked the large C-130 aircraft that transport military personnel, Humvees, helicopters, medical supplies, and food and water for the troops.
She had always been interested in teeth and oral care, so she enrolled in TMCC’s Dental Assisting Program, and graduated with a Certificate of Achievement in 2004.
“I really enjoyed the program—it was very involved and I came out very skilled,” she said.
After working in the private sector for eight years as a dental assistant for two local dentists, she went back to school to finish her bachelor’s degree in atmospheric science at the University of Nevada, Reno. Link was drawn back to dental care, though, and worked at the Northern Nevada Correctional Center (NNCC) Dental Clinic in Carson City, Nev. for close to two years.
When the position at TMCC’s clinic opened, she was very interested in the chance to return to her alma mater, and at the same time, reduce an hour-and-a-half total daily commute.
“We’re so lucky to welcome Jennifer—she’ll be a great asset to the Dental Hygiene Program and Clinic, the Sciences Division and TMCC,” said Lori McDonald, Dental Hygiene Program Director.
About the Dental Hygiene Clinic
The Clinic provides quality, affordable preventive dental care. It is currently accepting new patients. Services include intra-oral evaluations, cleanings, X-rays, sealants and fluoride for all ages. The phone number for scheduling appointments is 775-673-8247. Before the semester begins, prospective dental patients may call Link at 775-673-8293 for more information.
Dental hygiene students are the health care providers at the Clinic. They are under the supervision of TMCC faculty members who are licensed dental hygienists and licensed dentists who are also College instructors.
Dental Hygiene Clinic Hours in Fall Semester:
- Mondays: 8 a.m.–Noon and 1–5 p.m.
- Tuesdays: 1–5 p.m.
- Wednesdays: 8 a.m.–Noon
Dental Hygiene Clinic Hours in Spring Semester:
- Mondays: 8 a.m.–Noon and 1–5 p.m.
- Tuesdays: 8 a.m.–Noon and 1–5 p.m.
- Wednesdays: 8 a.m.–Noon and 1–5 p.m.
- Thursdays: 1–5 p.m.
All patients receive a thorough assessment evaluation examination.
The evaluation exam determines whether a standard cleaning or a deep cleaning is required. Depending on when the patient last had dental care, he or she may need periodic diagnostic X-rays. Patients may bring with them X-rays taken by their regular dentist if the films have been taken within the past 12 months.
TMCC students, staff and UNR students receive a 50 percent discount at the clinic, and veterans and active military receive a flat rate of $35 for total services provided. Students need to bring their student ID and a copy of their current class schedule.
Patients are asked to pay $25 for the assessment evaluation. The assessment fee includes a regular cleaning. If a patient needs a more extensive cleaning or X-rays, an additional fee is charged:
- Deep cleaning, if needed, $20 per quadrant
- X-rays, periodic bitewings $15 total, including 4-8 films
- X-rays, full set $25, including 14-17 films
- Panographic X-ray $25
“It’s always better to get treatment before a condition becomes painful,” Link said. “Don’t be afraid to come back for dental care even if you haven’t been to a dentist in a while. Everyone is nice and gentle here.”
For general patient information and Clinic policies, visit the TMCC Dental Hygiene Clinic website, or to schedule an appointment through the message line, call 775-673-8247.