Olde Towne Medical Center 1/30/2020

During my time at Olde Towne Medical Center on January 30th, 2020 I was able

to provide care to four patients. I evaluated medical histories, exposed three sets of

bitewing x-rays, completed a full mouth debridement, over due periodontal maintenance

patients, and completed four doctors exams. The population being served within this

clinic is individual’s who have no insurance to obtain dental care at neither a reasonable

price nor the funds to have dental care completed otherwise. While completing care for

the patients I served I gained new experiences that I am very thankful for. One instance

for example, a patient presented with a few sites of visible calculus on her x-rays with

light supragingival calculus present upon clinical evaluation. This patient had been seen

approximately one year prior for a full mouth debridement but never returned for

treatment to be completed. Upon evaluating with the ODU explorer I was able to find

many pieces of tenacious subgingival calculus, which I believe was a great way to aid in

strengthening my tactile sensation.

The factors that influence the way in which I view a situation are past

experiences, my knowledge, and my ethics, values, and principles. I learned that the

people we are serving are not only lacking in dental care, but medical care as well. Many

of them have language barriers that can hinder treatment due to lack of communication.

Our clinical rotations at these clinics are so very important because we are providing care

to those who are in such great need of dental care whether it being prophylaxis, oral

examination, etc. I have learned so many things during my experiences volunteering.

These experiences have and will continue to help me learn more about my future career,

by allowing me to see the areas in which I need to gain strength. I have learned that I
need to work on my speed and confidence while treating my patients. In conclusion

because of my service learning, I am becoming a better clinician due to the real life

experiences I am gaining while working with this underserved population, which I am so

grateful for.