University of Maine Expands Its Dental Hygiene and Dental Assistant Programs

Thanks to a generous $665,000 grant from Northeast Delta Dental, the University of Maine clinic in Lewiston is set to undergo significant expansion. This grant will not only enhance education programs and facility resources but will also double the capacity for teaching students in dental assistant and dental hygiene programs. The expansion aims to ensure that vulnerable populations, as well as all Maine residents, have access to essential dental services, including prevention-based therapies. Currently, Maine —like many other states — is experiencing a shortage of dental hygienists and dental assistants, with just over 1,000 dental hygienists and 1,230 dental assistants. This program also focuses on training and retaining dental professionals, contributing to better healthcare access for all Mainers. Click here to read more.