The AgStar Fund for Rural America, a corporate giving program of AgStar Financial Services, recently awarded the Minnesota State University, Mankato, dental hygiene department with a $5,000 grant to provide treatment to rural residents in need of dental care.

The MSU Dental Clinic serves an average of 4,000 patients annually and although they accept all forms of insurance, not all patients can afford treatment or have dental insurance. Grant funds will be used to provide free preventive care to qualifying patients.

“While it is important for everyone to get regular dental exams, it is especially important for rural residents because many of them do not get fluoride-treated water,” said Lisa Fleck, the interim dental hygiene department chairwoman.

Fluoride can help prevent as much as 60 percent of children’s cavities. Oral diseases, such as periodontal disease, can have a negative impact on an individual’s overall health and well being if left untreated.

“We recognize, however, that not everyone can afford preventive dental care without the aid of insurance,” said Fleck. “We wanted to reach out to everyone in the area who does not receive regular dental care and provide them an opportunity to obtain free preventive treatments.”

The MSU Dental Clinic will be offering free exams, X-rays, cleanings, periodontal therapy, sealants and fluoride treatments to rural residents who have no dental insurance. Individuals wanting to receive treatment paid by the AgStar grant must mention the AgStar scholarship when they make the appointment. Appointments will be available in April, May, September, October and November. Patients can call 507-389-2147 to schedule an appointment.

“It is such a wonderful thing to be able to offer services like this to those who do not have insurance in our rural communities. It is a great partnership for us and a win-win for the community and our school,” Fleck said.

Each year, from October through the end of November, the AgStar Fund for Rural America accepts grant applications for up to $10,000. Grant money is used for project or program support, technical assistance, general operating support or equipment. In 2011, AgStar awarded $91,000 to a total of 22 organizations. Since its inception in 2001, the AgStar Fund has donated more than $3 million to organizations.