ANN ARBOR—The University of Michigan School of Dentistry has developed and is offering a new dental plan that provides a range of oral health care services to all graduate and undergraduate students enrolled at the U-M.

Developed in cooperation with the Michigan Student Assembly, “The M-Dent Dental Plan” is available to both full-time and part-time students. Spouses and dependents may also enroll when the student enrolls.

The M-Dent Dental Plan is a low-cost, high-quality approach of addressing a student’s basic dental needs, such as cleanings and routine fillings. Enrollment in the plan is voluntary. If students wish to enroll, they can do so until Sept. 30. Enrollment entitles a student, their spouse, or dependents to coverage until Aug. 23, 2000. The cost is $130 per enrollee. There are no co-payments, deductibles, yearly maximums, or claim forms to fill out.

Services are provided by student dentists and faculty dentists at the School of Dentistry located on the Central Campus (1011 N. University) in Ann Arbor. Services covered during the membership period include: two cleanings and regular oral examinations; fluoride treatment and sealants (as needed); oral hygiene instruction and follow-up; X-rays, as needed, for services provided by the plan; three routine silver fillings (amalgams) or tooth-colored fillings (composites); emergency treatment for pain relief; emergency temporary fillings.

Not covered are extractions; specialty care, such as orthodontics or endodontics (root canals); veneers and bleachings; and bite splints.

“The M-Dent Dental Plan fills a critical gap in health care services for our students,” said Jed Jacobson, assistant dean for community and outreach programs. “It is another of many programs we have developed over the years to provide quality oral health care services to those throughout the communities we serve.”

Students who wish to enroll The first visit will take approximately an hour-and-a-half. It will include a thorough examination and X-rays, if needed. However, if a student has had X-rays taken in the past 12 months, he or she is encouraged to bring those along. The plan has the benefit of offering dental care at a low cost, but may require a great time commitment by the patient.

or