June 11, 2026 – Trident Technical College (TTC) on June 10 unveiled an expanded dental clinic that will allow the college to serve an additional 1,650 patients each year while helping address a regional shortage of dental hygienists.
The expansion of the college’s Dental Services Clinic on the Thornley Campus increases the number of operatories from 21 to 26 and will allow enrollment in the dental hygiene program to grow from 24 to 35 students.
College leaders say the project strengthens both access to care and the workforce pipeline in a field facing growing demand across South Carolina.
“The support from Solomon Family Dentistry made this expansion possible,” said Melissa Copeland, dental services department head at Trident Technical College. “This investment allows us to serve more patients, expand our program capacity and help meet the urgent need for dental hygienists in our region.”
The clinic provides affordable dental services to community members while serving as a training site for students in the college’s dental hygiene and dental assisting programs.
The expansion was supported by an in-kind gift from Solomon Family Dentistry, a long-standing partner of the college. During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the college unveiled signage recognizing the family’s contribution.
“As a practice rooted in this community, we understand how important it is to invest in the next generation of dental professionals,” said Dr. Jason Solomon of Solomon Family Dentistry. “Expanding the college’s training capacity strengthens the future of dental care across the Lowcountry.”
The upgraded clinic includes modern equipment designed to support hands-on training while enhancing patient care.
TTC Faculty and Staff, students and members of Solomon Family Dentistry team attended the ribbon-cutting event, followed by tours of the facility.
# # #
About Solomon Family Dentistry
Solomon Family Dentistry is a second-generation, family-owned dental practice with
multiple locations in the Summerville, Mount Pleasant and North Charleston, S.C.,
areas. Founded by Dr. Fred Solomon, the practice offers comprehensive, affordable
care, including emergency services. Learn more at solomonfamilydentistry.com