BCBS Foundation gives $500,000 to upgrade Tennessee dental school clinic

Memphis, Tenn.—BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Health Foundation has committed $500,000 to the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry, the college reported Oct. 29, 2009.

According to the school, the funds will go toward replacing clinic chairs and upgrading equipment in the Dunn Dental Building, where the UT Dental Clinic is housed.

“We are grateful for this generous grant and will immediately put these funds to good use,” said Dr. Timothy Hottel, UTCD dean. “Improving the physical condition of the dental clinic and outfitting it with state-of-the-art equipment are our top priorities. These funds will play a significant part in helping to sustain our college’s tradition of grooming well-trained dental professionals.”

The UT Dental Clinic is operated by third- and fourth-year dental students who are completing the clinical phase of their education. The building is named for Dr. Winfield C. Dunn, a former Tennessee governor and alumnus of the college, who currently serves as honorary chairman of the college’s $15 million capital campaign.

“We welcome the opportunity to support the UT College of Dentistry,” said Vicky Gregg, president and CEO of BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee. “Our research indicates that proper dental care is vital to overall good health. Through this grant, we are helping to enhance the supply of dental services to the citizens of Tennessee, and to ensure that they continue to receive high quality oral care.”