Frequently asked questions
Who is eligible for care at the PCC Dental Clinic?
Anyone in the community who needs dental care within the scope of services offered is welcome at the PCC Dental Clinic.
What types of services do you offer?
PCC Dental Clinic offers different types of appointments depending on the cohort of students training in the clinic at that time.
- Dental Assisting students (fall and winter terms) assist with new patient exams and single-filling restorative procedures.
- Dental Hygiene students (fall, winter, and spring terms) provide x-rays, dental assessments, and cleanings, and some restorative appointments (winter and spring terms only).
I’m a new patient and need a cleaning. What can I expect?
As a new patient, expect to be scheduled for 2-4 appointments to complete your cleaning. Your first visit typically includes dental x-rays (if needed), assessments, and a dental exam conducted by a licensed dentist. Depending on available time and the student’s level of experience, your cleaning may begin at the first visit or be scheduled for the second. The number of appointments you’ll need is based on the type of cleaning recommended during your assessment. Appointments take place in a shared, open clinic space. This layout fosters a collaborative learning atmosphere, allowing students and licensed professionals to work together to provide high-quality care. While other patients may be treated nearby, your privacy and comfort are always a top priority.
How much do your services cost? What type of insurance do you accept?
All services are provided at no cost, and no insurance is needed. PCC Dental Clinic is an educational facility that offers free care as part of student training.
Can I just get my teeth cleaned or a filling without an exam?
No. All patients must first complete a new patient assessment. This allows the students to evaluate your oral health and determine appropriate treatment before any procedures – such as cleanings or fillings – are scheduled.
How long will my appointments take and why?
Appointments last approximately 3½ hours. Dental hygiene students perform all care under the supervision of licensed dental professionals. Services are provided in quadrants (four sections of the mouth), with detailed instruction and evaluation throughout the appointment. This extended time ensures thoroughness, learning, and patient safety.
Why is it important to keep my scheduled appointment?
Keeping your scheduled appointment is essential. Students depend on patient attendance to meet their clinical requirements. Cancellations or no-shows can affect their ability to complete coursework and gain necessary experience. Please be sure to give the clinic at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment. Patients who are frequently late, cancel, or no-show will no longer be accepted as patients.
Do you provide emergency or urgent dental care?
Unfortunately, the clinic does not offer emergency or walk-in services. The teaching clinic can only provide services aligned with the PCC Dental Sciences curriculum, such as cleanings and simple fillings. For emergency care, please contact the Multnomah County Dental Clinic nearest you, or see our community dental resources.
Can you refer me elsewhere if I need treatment beyond the scope of the clinic?
If your dental needs exceed what the students are able to provide, the clinic will offer a referral to OHSU School of Dentistry or provide you with information regarding other low-cost dental clinics in the area that offer comprehensive care. Patients can also arrange to have a copy of their chart notes and X-rays sent to themselves or another office if needed.
Can I count on coming to the PCC Dental Clinic for my regular cleanings?
Because the clinic is only open during the school year and closed during the summer, patients should be aware that they will not be able to stick to their regular cleaning schedule. Additionally, as an educational institution, PCC Dental Clinic cannot guarantee ongoing re-care appointments. In this instance, the patient would need to seek treatment from their primary dentist or another dental provider.
What if I had X-rays taken recently? Can I send them to you?
Yes! Contact your previous dental provider and request that they email your X-rays to dentalclinic@pcc.edu. Acceptable images include:
- Full Mouth Series (FMX) taken within the last 2–3 years
- Bitewings and a Panoramic x-ray (Pano) taken within the last year
If your X-rays are outdated or unavailable, our students will take new ones during your initial visit.
Why do I need X-rays?
X-rays help us assess the health of your teeth and supporting bone structure. Many dental conditions are not visible to the naked eye and can only be diagnosed through radiographic imaging. We are unable to proceed with treatment without current X-rays.
Where are you located, and how do I get there?
The clinic is located in downtown Portland on the 3rd floor of the Vanport Building, at 1810 SW 5th Ave, Portland, OR 97201.
The Vanport Building is easily accessible by public transportation. Bus, light rail, and streetcar lines serve the area well. Use the TriMet Trip Planner for directions.
You can also take a shuttle from the PCC Sylvania Campus. Visit the PCC shuttles page for more information.
Where do I park?
The PCC Dental Clinic is located near the main campus of Portland State University, with several visitor parking options nearby. Hourly parking is available to the public, and payment is required. We do not validate parking. Learn more about parking garage options.
Lastly, there is street parking using mobile apps such as Parking Kitty and Park Mobile.
How can I get more information?
- Phone: 971-722-4909
- Email: dentalclinic@pcc.edu