Ivy Tech Celebrates Opens Expanded Dental Hygiene Clinic, Increasing Access to Education and Affordable Dental Care

SOUTH BEND, Ind. Ivy Tech Community College South Bend–Elkhart celebrated the opening of its renovated and expanded Dental Hygiene Clinic with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on October 14. The approximately $2.6 million project transformed former bookstore space into a modern training clinic, increasing dental treatment stations from 10 to 18.

Why It Matters

The expanded clinic supports two community priorities: preparing more dental hygienists for local employers and offering affordable preventive dental care to area residents. More treatment stations allow students to gain supervised clinical experience while increasing capacity for community patient visits.

Meeting Workforce Needs

The College plans to grow incoming cohorts from 16 to 24 students with potential for additional growth, subject to required approvals. Previously, limited training space constrained enrollment even as qualified students sought admission. Regional workforce projections cited in the project planning materials anticipate approximately 9% growth in dental hygienist employment from 2023 to 2033.

Benefits To Patients

The clinic provides preventive dental hygiene services at reduced cost, including cleanings, screenings, X-rays, fluoride treatments, sealants and oral health education. Students deliver services under licensed professional supervision. Expanding clinic capacity can help reduce cost-related barriers to routine care.

Modern Learning Space

The renovated space features 18 treatment stations, updated cabinetry and clinical support and sterilization areas. Students can train using equipment and processes reflective of professional dental practices.

Community Investment

The project draws on College resources and support associated with the Leighton Foundation and Indiana's Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative (READI), demonstrating how education, philanthropy and economic development partners can strengthen local healthcare training.

“By expanding our clinic, we can prepare more students for rewarding careers in dental hygiene while increasing access to affordable dental care. It's an investment that benefits students, local employers, and the families we serve.” — Patrick Englert, Chancellor, Ivy Tech South Bend-Elkhart.

The fall opening marked a milestone for Ivy Tech South Bend–Elkhart's commitment to healthcare education and community service. The expansion is intended to create more training opportunities, strengthen the local dental workforce and provide additional affordable preventive care appointments.