Hawkeyes Make a Difference

Help us reach our goal!

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.

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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.

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.
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Together, Hawkeyes educate the next generation.

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.

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

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.

A Destination Dental School That Makes a Difference for Iowans

Jennifer Sukalski with the student who nominated her for the mentor of the year award

2025 Mentor of the Year

Tuesday, June 3, 2025
Dr. Jennifer Sukalski was named the 2024-25 Student Research Mentor of the Year by the Iowa Chapter of the American Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research. by the Iowa Chapter of the American Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research. This award was presented in recognition of his efforts to enhance students research at the College of Dentistry.
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Eleven Student Researchers Earn Senior Research Achievement Awards

Tuesday, June 3, 2025
Senior Research Achievement Awards are determined based on a portfolio of research that is circulated to a group of electors. The electors select award recipients based on the scientific merit of projects, the significance and productivity of projects, the number of years of involvement in research, the originality of the research, and the student's professional conduct. Award recipients were selected in 2025: Olivia Bartholomew, James Beyer, Michael Chavez, Carter Coppinger, Garret Curtis, Casey Delaney, Zach Graham, Alex Harper, Austin Hinkle, Claire Kettle, and Jackie Yeh.
Alex Harper

DDS student Alex Harper (D4) featured in Dare to Discover campaign

Tuesday, June 3, 2025
Samuel Allen (D4) was featured in the 2025 Dare to Discover Campaign for the University of Iowa Office of the Vice President of Research. Samuel Allen's research investigates how probiotics can boost oral health
Samuel Allen

DDS student Samuel Allen (D4) featured in Dare to Discover campaign

Tuesday, June 3, 2025
Samuel Allen (D4) was featured in the 2025 Dare to Discover Campaign for the University of Iowa Office of the Vice President of Research. Samuel Allen's research investigates how probiotics can boost oral health
Vi Phan

DDS student Vi Phan (D3) featured in Dare to Discover campaign

Tuesday, June 3, 2025
Samuel Allen (D4) was featured in the 2025 Dare to Discover Campaign for the University of Iowa Office of the Vice President of Research. Samuel Allen's research investigates how probiotics can boost oral health
Pros faculty and student award winners pose for a photo

Prosthodontics hosts 2025 Student Prosthodontics Award Luncheon

Monday, June 2, 2025

A Legacy of Innovation

Friday, May 30, 2025

Traditional Braces vs. Invisalign: What the ADA and NIH Say

Friday, May 30, 2025
Choosing between braces and Invisalign? Both are great options, but what’s best for you depends on your needs and lifestyle. This quick guide breaks down the pros and cons of each, such as effectiveness, comfort, and appearance, so you can feel confident about your treatment and your future smile.

Why Flossing Matters (Yep, Even If You Brush!)

Friday, May 30, 2025
Flossing is more than just a bonus step; it’s a vital part of keeping your smile healthy. While brushing cleans the surfaces of your teeth, flossing removes the plaque and debris that hide between them. Skipping it can lead to gum disease, cavities, and even impact your overall health. Flossing just once a day helps protect your gums, supports your whole-body wellness, and keeps your smile strong for the long run.

Why Brushing at Night Really Matters: What the Research Says

Friday, May 30, 2025
Brushing your teeth at night is crucial for preventing cavities, gum disease, and systemic health issues. It removes harmful plaque, reduces inflammation, supports heart health, improves sleep, and benefits both children’s development and older adults' longevity. A simple habit, backed by science, with powerful long-term benefits.
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Together, Hawkeyes transform clinical technology

Together, Hawkeyes transform clinical technology

New digital technologies are transforming dental practice at a rapid pace. Whether it’s computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) to design and 3D-print customized restorations, dentures, orthodontia, or implants; powerful intraoral digital scanners for fast and accurate digital images of a person’s teeth; or high-resolution 4K monitors for student simulation clinics, Iowa is committed to helping our graduates thrive as they learn to use, evaluate, and apply these transformative clinical technologies.

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.

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.