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

A photo of a digital scan of a patient's mouth.

5 ways the UI College of Dentistry is advancing digital dentistry

Wednesday, December 18, 2024
The College of Dentistry appointed Assistant Professor of Prosthodontics Dr. Salah Abuhammoud Director of Digital Clinics to spearhead the college's implementation of more digital technologies and workflows that will enhance our operations, elevate our education, and improve patient outcomes. Here are five ways he is making an impact.
Brian James posed photo

Becoming the business savvy DDS

Monday, December 16, 2024
1987 graduate Brian James understands the challenges recent dental graduates face and has taken it upon himself to try and help those graduates create a stable practice.
Dr. Trishul Allareddy

AI and the Ethical Smile

Monday, December 16, 2024
Dr. Allareddy is working at the national level to implement the ethical use of AI in dentistry
Herky at the podium on research day

Abstract Submission Guidance

Wednesday, December 11, 2024
This guidance will help you submit your abstract to be featured in annual AADOCR Research Day.
Carter, Kniper to step down from Staff Dev

Carter, Knipfer to step down from Staff Development Committee

Tuesday, December 10, 2024
After more than 10 years, Keeley Carter (OPRM) and Shannon Knipfer (FAMD) are retiring from their leadership position on the Staff Development Committee.
Jessica Grundmeyer

Jessica Grundmeyer Wins Student Cariology Research Award

Monday, December 2, 2024
The College of Dentistry congratulates Jessica Grundmeyer on receiving the 2024 Student Cariology Research Award from the American Academy of Cariology. Under the direction of Dr. Robert Bowers, assistant professor in the Department of Family Dentistry, Jessica’s research explores various methodologies for applying silver diamine fluoride (SDF), including supplemental topical agents, and examines their effects on root dentin's microhardness and biofilm inhibition.
Group picture of the grad pros program at the ACP meeting in Florida.

Prosthodontics residents present at the ACP annual meeting

Thursday, November 21, 2024
From Nov. 6-9 seven graduate prosthodontic residents and program director Dr. Kerdani attended and presented at the American College of Prosthodontics meetings in Florida.

The College of Dentistry 'pins the map' for International Education Week

Thursday, November 21, 2024
Members of the UI College of Dentistry pinned their homes on a map to bring awareness to international education and how a global educational community impacts us all.
ISO presentation in Graduate Hotel conference room

2024 Iowa Society of Orthodontics Meeting

Wednesday, November 13, 2024
The 2024 Iowa Society of Orthodontics meeting, held October 6-7 at the University of Iowa College of Dentistry and the Graduate Hotel, featured inspiring lectures by Dr. Ron Hathaway and Dr. Barry Glaser. Attendees celebrated advances in orthodontics, shared challenges, and built connections, embodying resilience and innovation despite technical setbacks.