Delta Dental of Idaho and Idaho State University improve access to dental care with new full-service dental clinic at ISU-Meridian

Meridian - Idaho State University and Delta Dental of Idaho today celebrated the grand opening of a new dental clinic that provides advanced education for licensed dentists and affordable dental care for underserved patients in the Treasure Valley.

The Delta Dental of Idaho Dental Residency Clinic at Idaho State University is located in the west wing of the ISU-Meridian Health Science Center, 1311 E. Central Drive.

The 5,200-square-foot clinic, designed by Hummel Architects of Boise, has 12 clinical treatment rooms—including two surgical suites with video-conferencing capabilities—an X-ray and sterilization lab, a waiting room and reception area.

The dental clinic was made possible with a $500,000 gift from Delta Dental of Idaho Community Outreach and a $1 million appropriation recommended by Idaho Gov. C.L. “Butch” Otter and approved by the 2010 Idaho Legislature.

“When we designed the Meridian Health Science Center several years ago, we envisioned a medical, education and research facility under one roof, which would serve not only our students, but all of Idaho,” said ISU President Arthur C. Vailas. “With the completion of the dental clinic, we are a step closer to fulfilling that vision. Thank you, Delta Dental of Idaho for your generous support.”

Jean De Luca, president and chief executive officer of Delta Dental of Idaho, said the partnership with Idaho State University is a perfect fit. “Improving the health of Idahoans and promoting education is at the core of who we are. We are thrilled to be working with ISU to expand dental health services in the Treasure Valley and develop a highly qualified dental workforce for the future,” said De Luca.

Guest speaker Idaho Lt. Gov. Brad Little applauded the public-private partnership between Delta Dental of Idaho and ISU.  “Improving affordability and access to quality health care has always been a pressing need in our state. The partnership between Delta Dental and Idaho State University is a giant step towards fulfilling this need,” he said.

At the conclusion of the grand opening celebration, dignitaries lined up across a doorway leading to the clinic to "cut the floss"—a long white ribbon attached to a giant floss container. Dental residents conducted tours of the facility.

Each year, ISU’s dental residency program admits eight dentists—four in Meridian and four in Pocatello—to complete a year of advanced education in all facets of general dentistry, including oral surgery, periodontics, endodontics, pediatric dentistry and restorative techniques.

The new clinic accepts most insurance plans and honors a sliding fee scale based on family income. To contact the clinic, call 373-1855.