The University of IowaCollege of Dentistry

Dental Care at the College of Dentistry

Welcome to the College of Dentistry

The College of Dentistry has been serving the dental needs of Iowans since 1882. We are proud to be a leader in professional education, patient service, and dental research. The finest staff, facilities, and equipment are combined with the most up-to-date and comprehensive treatment techniques and materials to ensure excellent dental care for all ages. Each year approximately 9,000 patients come to the College, resulting in 118,000 patient visits. The large number of patients gives us a depth of experience to treat every dental problem in an appropriate way. Our goal is to treat every patient as our only patient.

If you need information or assistance, please consult the collegiate phone directory.

Patient Service Goal

Our ultimate goal is to ensure that all patients receive quality dentistry in a caring, personal manner. We offer many services and options.

Provider Options for Patients

We welcome everyone to our clinics, and provide comprehensive and referral dental services. Patients requesting student care are first evaluated by faculty dentists in Admissions. Treatment may be recommended by one of the following providers: students, residents, or faculty. Excellent dentistry will be provided with all three options.

1. Student Clinics are carefully supervised by faculty. Extra time and additional appointments may be required for treatment. Your contribution to our educational program results in a reduced fee. To schedule an appointment, call  (319) 335-7499.

2. Residents are dentists who are post-doctoral students specializing in one of the dental areas of expertise. Graduate fees are offered.

3. Faculty dentists have a group private practice at the College. Fees and time commitment are comparable to private practice. All dental specialties are available for consultation and special treatment needs. This allows for convenient and easily coordinated referrals.

4. Recall Programs. All provider options offer comprehensive oral examinations and teeth cleanings to help maintain dental health.

5. Special Care Clinic. For the convenience of the elderly and medically complex adult over 18 years of age, dental services are offered in one easily accessible location. Phone (319) 335-7373; Geriatric Mobile Unit - dentistry-gmu@uiowa.edu

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Becoming a Patient

Adults: Patients older than 16, who choose treatment in the student clinics, will first receive a brief examination and radiographs to determine which program can provide the most appropriate dental care. Call (319) 335-7499.

Diagnostic Services: The second appointment will include a comprehensive examination and treatment plan as well as cost estimate and any necessary specialty consultations.

Emergencies: An important service provided for our patients is emergency treatment. For pain, swelling, broken teeth, etc., the clinic accepts new or continuing patients every week day (except legal holidays) year round. Call (319) 335-7447. After hours emergency care is available at the University Hospital. Phone (319) 356-1616.

Children: Patients under the age of 16 are seen in the Department of Pediatric Dentistry. Phone (319) 335-7485.

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Clinic Services

Office of Clinical Research: Providing comprehensive dental care with opportunities to participate in clinical research trials. Phone (319) 335-7414 or (319) 335-9557.

Endodontics: Root canal treatment and related surgery is provided for diseases of the pulp and bone and injuries to the teeth to preserve healthy teeth in a natural state. Phone (319) 335-7469.

Family Dentistry: Simulating private practice, dental students provide comprehensive dental treatment. Phone (319) 335-7316.

Implant Clinic: The clinic provides dental implants as permanent replacements for patients with missing teeth. Phone (319) 335-7169.

Operative Dentistry: Restoring decayed or broken teeth with amalgam, gold, and tooth-colored materials. Phone (319) 335-7217.

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery: Providing diagnosis and surgical treatment of diseases, injuries, and defects of the teeth and mouth. Phone (319) 335-7457.

Oral Pathology, Radiology and Medicine: Treating pain and problems associated with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), as well as infections of the mouth. Diagnostic services include radiographs (x rays), clinical and laboratory studies, and comprehensive examinations. Treatment services are provided in the Radiology Clinic, the specialized Pain Clinic, and the Mucosal Disease Clinic (soft tissue of the head and neck region). Phone (319) 335-9656.

Orthodontics: Straightening teeth for both children and adults, and treating problems related to growth and development of the jaws. A special early treatment program is available for small children. Phone (319) 335-7287.

Pediatric Dentistry: Providing comprehensive dental care for children six months to 15 years, with emphasis on preventive dental health. A program for children with special health needs is also available. Phone (319) 335-7485.

Periodontics: Preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the mouth, and maintaining healthy gums. Phone (319) 335-7232.

Preventive Dentistry Providing dental preventive services including cleaning and polishing teeth, instruction and counseling in oral hygiene, nutrition, and the maintenance of oral health. Phone (319) 335-7255.

Prosthodontics: Designing, constructing, and fitting crowns, fixed bridges, and immediate, complete and partial dentures. Phone (319) 335-7274.

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Other Services

Cafeteria: For your convenience, the Filling Station, located on the first floor, offers breakfast, lunch, and snack items.

Pharmacy: Our pharmacy, located on the third floor of the clinic area, is available for filling prescriptions and answering questions regarding medications. College of Dentistry prescriptions can also be filled at your local pharmacy. Phone (319) 335-7435.

Business Office: Payment is expected after each visit. However, installment arrangements can be made for larger dental bills. We accept checks, cash, credit card, dental insurance, and Title XIX. We will complete and file the proper forms at no extra charge or assist you with any financial concerns or questions. Phone (319) 335-7440.

Patient Representative: If you ever have any suggestions for us, we would appreciate receiving them. You may discuss any concerns with a patient representative. If you need special assistance or are unable to resolve questions with your practitioner, the patient representative may be reached at (319) 335-7499.

Interpreter Services: If you need assistance with English, please bring your own interpreter so you will be well informed about your treatment needs and procedures. If possible, we will assist by providing interpreters.

Research: Another important mission of the College is research. Many of our staff members are nationally and internationally recognized in their fields. Their research focuses on the latest methods and materials and also provides an outstanding atmosphere of learning for our students.

Service programs: The College provides a mobile clinic unit which travels to nursing homes in seven counties surrounding Iowa City. Student clinicians provide dental treatment to residents. In addition, senior students spend part of their year providing dental treatment in clinics for disadvantaged patients in Des Moines and Cedar Rapids.

Continuing Education: The college coordinates and implements continuing education seminars for all practicing dentists in the state of Iowa.

Infection Control: We are concerned about protecting patients from the spread of infectious diseases. All instruments and handpieces used in dental care are sterilized and meet all Centers for Disease Control guidelines. Practitioners are required to wear clean, protective clothing, and to carefully sterilize the operatory between patients. You may request protective eyewear during appointments.

Child Care: Babysitting services are not available at the College. Please arrange to have someone care for your child while you are being treated.

Thank you for your interest in the College of Dentistry. Because your dental health is important to us, we want to be a resource for information and treatment.

You may also wish to consult the Faculty Directory

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©2009 The University of Iowa College of Dentistry