Students at the U of M can now access dental services without leaving campus, thanks to the opening of University Centre Dental. The clinic offers routine checkups, cleanings, diagnostic x-rays and individualized treatment plans for students, staff and the broader university community. The clinic is located at Room 118, University Centre, and appointments are already open, with services officially beginning on Sept. 8“ “[It’s the] exact same as any other [private] dental office off campus […] we accept all  forms of insurance […] and are officially open to book patients, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.,” said Nagra.

The clinic restores a vital service that was missing on campus for several years. The previous dental office, which had served the University Centre for many years, was destroyed by a fire in 2020 and never rebuilt. Nagra, who first worked at the campus dental office after graduating in 2011, stayed connected to campus business administrators and was eventually able to secure a space for a new office.

“I always thought […] there was such a big need for it on campus,” Nagra explained, describing his motivation for reopening a dental service at University Centre.

University Centre Dental is equipped to serve a wide range of dental needs. The office includes treatment operatories, a consultation room and an X-ray/imaging room, allowing the clinic to provide both preventive and diagnostic care. Services are offered under the same insurance conditions as private dental offices off-campus, with many students having coverage included as part of their tuition. For students, this offers both convenience and reassurance that their oral health can be managed without leaving the campus.

Nagra said his roots at the U of M inspired him to bring dental care back to campus. “Being born and raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba, I spent my entire education at the U of M […] I have a deep connection with the U of M community and the University Centre in particular,” he said.

Opening the dental office also reflects the broader issue of accessibility to healthcare services for students. University campuses often lack comprehensive in-house medical or dental care, forcing students to navigate off-campus appointments that may conflict with their busy schedules. By situating the clinic within University Centre, Nagra aims to bridge this gap and make routine dental care as convenient as possible for the campus population.

Dr. Nagra emphasized the collaborative effort behind the project.  “There’s a lot of people that helped make this happen,” he said, acknowledging Amanda Johnson from UMSU for her instrumental support during the process.

Nagra encouraged the community to visit the clinic as doors are open for questions, concerns, or appointments. “We’re here for you. We’re here to […] help with all your dental needs,” Nagra said.

As University Centre Dental opens its doors this fall, it restores a long-standing service but also shows the university’s commitment to student health and accessibility, setting a new standard for on-campus care.

Booking an appointment is flexible. Students can call 204-275-8402, visit Room 118, University Centre in person or message the office via Instagram @university_centre_dental. The first 50 students who book cleanings and checkups will receive U of M backpacks, and during the Sept 2. Bison Bash, daily draws for electric toothbrushes will take place at the campus booth.