LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Whether it's a loss of income or COVID-19 concerns, going to the dentist has been something lots of people are taking a pass on these days.
But as 13 Action News anchor Tricia Kean reports, there's a local program promising safety and affordability.
"I feel safer here than I do going to the grocery store," said student Maninder Matharu.
SCREEN PATIENTS
He knows firsthand about the new procedures protecting patients and staff at the UNLV Dental School.
"The first thing we do is screen the patients and we screen us. We all have these little red tags that show we're screened," Matharu said.
FIFTY PERCENT CAPACITY
Everyone entering the building must wear a mask, have their temperature checked and answer questions about their possible exposure to COVID-19. The staff also wears personal protection equipment from head to toe.
"They're covered in shields, head covers, booties, gowns... we're at about 50% capacity for safety measures," said Dental School Dean Dr. Lily T. Garcia.
She says every other chair in the clinic is off limits, following proper social distancing guidelines. Plus, they've added safeguards like these glass partitions and state-of-the-art filter systems.
FACULTY OVERSIGHT
Services at UNLV's School of Dental Medicine include; general and pediatric dentistry, orthodontics, and emergency care. Most of the services are performed by students like Matharu, but faculty oversees it all and when required they can step in.
"Here you'll see us, you'll see the hygienist, you'll see the dentist and sometimes you'll see another dentist on top of that. Each one will make sure that everything is perfect, good to go and textbook," said Matharu.
UP TO 60% CHEAPER
Best of all, UNLV's dental services come at a low-low price.
"We may be 40 to 60% lower than the private fees," Garcia said.
The school is also planning to start a free Saturday clinic.
"We can provide free care to veterans, homeless individuals, mothers and children of domestic violence," Garcia said.
In the end, Matharu says it's a deal you should definitely take advantage of.
"Come here because you're going to get the best job possible and at a reduced price. So, it's nice," Matharu said.
UNLV says appointments usually take about two to three hours. Anyone interested in becoming a patient can call 702-774-2400.
