Hawkeyes Make a Difference

Since 1882, The University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics has focused on meeting the needs of our patients. Clinical care frames and undergirds our approach to dental education and our commitment to translating oral science research and discovery into reality for our patients.   

As the only dental school in the State of Iowa and a nationally leading program in terms of clinical experience, the college plays a vital role in meeting the oral health needs of Iowans.

160,000

Patient visits each year.

98 of 99

Iowa counties have our dental graduates practicing there.

14.2

of every 100,000 Iowans will develop oral cancer.

The State of Iowa has the highest rate of oral cancer in the country at 14.2 per 100,000 people.

  • Excellence in patient care makes a difference for each patient seen.

  • Excellence in health care education makes a difference in each patient seen by future dentists and specialists.

  • Excellence in research and discovery revolutionizes and transforms oral health care for millions.

Together, Hawkeyes advance research and discovery

Hongli Sun conducting research

Iowa Dentistry continues to rapidly expand its research and discovery, exceling in regenerative biomedicine, genetic research, and biomaterials, alongside an innovative oral cancer program. This expansive research and discovery mission is establishing Iowa as a global leader in oral science research, which benefits everyday Iowans.

2nd

in the Big 10 for research dollars received

In 2022, Iowa received $5.4 million in research funding from The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR). These funds account for about half of Iowa Dentistry's external research support.

$9,471,347

in external research funding received.

Since 2020, Iowa Dentistry's seed grants have resulted in almost $10 million in external research funding. These funds are excellent tools to recruit and retain high-caliber, early career faculty.

Together, Hawkeyes educate the next generation.

White Coat Ceremony for the Class of 2027 and the Advanced Standing Class of 2025

As a national leader in the amount and quality of student clinical experiences, our students receive an unparalleled dental education over the course of their four years. These patient experiences and our comprehensive educational programs ensure that Iowa’s dental workforce meets the current and future needs of the state.

1,135

students applied to our DDS program in 2023

This record-breaking number shows that Iowa remains a destination DDS program for students from all over the country.

10 of 12

recognized advanced training programs available

The American Dental Association recognizes 12 dental advanced specialties. With 10 advanced training programs and two other innovative programs, our students receive the highest quality dental education.

Together, Hawkeyes transform clinical technology

Together, Hawkeyes transform clinical technology

New technologies are transforming the practice of dentistry. Whether it’s computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) to design and 3D-printed restorations, dentures or implants; intraoral digital scanners for fast and accurate images; or high-resolution monitors for simulation clinics, Iowa is committed to helping our students thrive as they learn to use and apply these transformative technologies.

8

In-house 3D printers

Iowa Dentistry has 8 in-house 3D printers that have enabled the college to fabricate a wide variety of dental materials, ranging from dentures to invisible aligners.

80

Simulation Operatories

The Sim Clinic, Iowa Dentistry's hands-on skills clinic, has 80 operatories that are intended to help first- and second-year dental students practice in a realistic, simulated environment.

A Global Leader

Mary Young with her mentor Azeez Butali

Spearheading an International Network of Cleft Lip and Palate Research for African Populations

Thursday, January 18, 2024
Azeez Butali is a global leader in cleft lip and palate research and the world’s foremost expert in the genetics of these conditions in African populations. As part of his research mission, he has also spearheaded the formation of a diverse, international network of researchers in Africa and the US to develop, refine, and apply their findings for the benefit of African populations and their genetic descendants. 

Making a Difference in Iowa

Karin Weber-Gasparoni high-fiving a patient in the WIC clinic

Preventive Oral Health Care for Toddlers and Infants

Thursday, January 18, 2024
Karin Weber-Gasparoni is passionate about supporting new caregivers and improving oral health for underserved populations. Her collaborative clinical research initiatives are transforming oral health care for toddlers and infants in Iowa, and are laying the foundation for changing how oral health care is provided for the youngest of us.

A Destination Dental School That Makes a Difference for Iowans

Wide shot of Kinnick Stadium striped in black and gold

2026 Pregame Socials

Wednesday, July 1, 2026
UI College of Dentistry alumni and friends are invited to join faculty and staff behind the Dental Science Building on three Saturdays before Iowa football games for food, beverages, and comradery.
Dr-Raj-Khanuja-L-Honourable-Patty-Hajdu-R

Iowa dental alum's national dental care initiative recognized across Canada

Tuesday, June 30, 2026
Dr. Raj Khanuja, a 2000 graduate of the University of Iowa College of Dentistry, launched National Dental Care Day, a dignity-based dental care initiative recognized for expanding access to care across Canada.
Danielle Wingrove headshot

Wingrove appointed Walton Professor of Endodontics

Monday, June 29, 2026
Dr. Danielle Wingrove, department executive officer in the Department of Endodontics at the University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics, has been appointed to the Richard E. Walton Professorship of Endodontics.
Leo Marchini

Marchini named 2026 Health Access Hero

Monday, June 29, 2026
Dr. Leonardo Marchini was recognized by Sun Life for his work to improve health access and selected the college’s Geriatric and Special Needs Program to receive a $10,000 donation.
Exterior of Dental Science Building

How Clinical Pharmacists Became Part of the Dental Care Team at Iowa

Monday, June 29, 2026
For more than five decades, an embedded pharmacy team has helped Iowa dentists navigate increasingly complex patient care—one phone call, one student, and one patient at a time.
Globe icon

From Iowa to India: A dental outreach journal

Tuesday, June 23, 2026
Join University of Iowa College of Dentistry alumnus and adjunct faculty member Dr. Bruce Anderson (DDS ’88) as he chronicles his latest journey through India with a group of dental students. A longtime public health dentist, educator, and world traveler, Anderson shares personal reflections on his trip to India.
A dental student uses a digital scanner in the Simulation Lab

Innovation over time

Monday, June 15, 2026
Innovation at Iowa didn't happen overnight. It has been built over decades through new technologies, evolving patient care and a commitment to discovery. Here's a brief look at advances the College of Dentistry has made.
A graduate and Herky take a photo with a big golden toothbrush that says, "The University of Iowa"

2026 Commencement Photo Gallery

Thursday, June 11, 2026
On Friday, June 5, the University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics held it's 2026 commencement ceremony to celebrate DDS and specialty program graduates.

Bridging Concept and Clinic: Educational Caries Teeth

Wednesday, June 10, 2026
When existing training materials fell short, Iowa faculty set out to build something better. In collaboration with IowaMADE and Protostudios, they developed a 3D-printed educational caries tooth that gives dental students a more realistic way to learn cavity treatment and restorative care.
Vi Phan receiving the 2026 Student Researcher of the Year from Dr. Marshall

Vi Phan earns Outstanding Dental Student Research Award

Thursday, June 4, 2026
At the spring meeting of Dental Student Research Group, Vi Phan received the award for 2026 Outstanding Dental Researcher.