The University of Tennessee Health Science Center: College of Dentistry

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About

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center: College of Dentistry is a comprehensive institution in Memphis, Tennessee. As the oldest Dental school in the South, it is a leading provider of dental education, research, and patient care. The college offers a four-year Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) program, a dental hygiene program, and various postgraduate specialty programs. Through its student-run and faculty-run clinics, it provides a wide range of dental services to the community while giving students hands-on experience. The institution is dedicated to improving the health of Tennesseans and beyond.

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) College of Dentistry, located in Memphis, is a distinguished institution with a rich history. Founded in 1878, it holds the distinction of being the oldest dental college in the Southern United States and the third oldest public college of dentistry in the country. The college is a vital part of the larger UTHSC, which is Tennessee's only public, statewide academic health system. The core mission of the college is multi-faceted, encompassing education, patient care, research, and community service. For education, the college offers a rigorous four-year Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) program that emphasizes clinical excellence and early hands-on experience. Students also have access to advanced education programs in all recognized dental specialties, including endodontics, oral and maxillofacial surgery, orthodontics, pediatric dentistry, periodontics, and prosthodontics. These programs are accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). In terms of patient care, the college operates comprehensive clinical facilities with approximately 300 operatories, serving around 120,000 patient visits annually. This makes it a crucial healthcare resource for the Memphis area and the surrounding region. Patient services are offered in three different clinic settings: student clinics for routine care under faculty supervision, specialty clinics for more complex treatments by postgraduate residents, and a dental faculty practice that mirrors a private practice setting. The recent addition of a new, state-of-the-art building further enhances patient experience and clinical research capabilities. The college is also heavily invested in research, with a focus on areas like oral cancer and dental materials, contributing to advancements in the field. Its commitment to community service is demonstrated through various outreach programs, including mobile dental clinics that serve underserved populations in rural areas and school-based preventive programs for children. This dedication to both education and service ensures that a significant portion of Tennessee's practicing dentists are UTHSC alumni.

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Wheelchair accessible restroom

Amenities

Restroom

Planning

Appointments recommended

Payments

Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments

Planning

Accepts new patients

Payments

Cash-only

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The University of Tennessee Health Science Center: College of Dentistry

Patient Reviews

3.5 out of 5

Laura K.

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Dentistry exceeds expectations for quality, affordable care! As a new patient, I was impressed by their blend of education and expertise. The clinic is modern and well-organized, with a friendly staff that guided me through every step. Dental students, supervised by experienced faculty, provided thorough care—explaining each procedure and answering all my questions.

My cleaning was gentle yet detailed, and they took time to discuss my oral health goals. They work with various insurance plans and offer payment options, making care accessible. A practice that prioritizes both learning and patient well-being—highly recommend!

August 13, 2025

nicole head

I got two root canal done here . N this place is better than any real dentist office honestly. I have very bad anxiety but I had the pleasure of receiving service from DR. hockaday she was awesome both times I went . The second time it was a Little Rocky not due to her but she was very Patient with me , even though I was quite embarrassed because I had to keep getting up. Also I was in more pain on the second root canal but shes very knowledgeable n made me very comfortable.

Less than 6 hours I was eating egg rolls n shrimp fried rice . Less than 48 hours I’m back eating like nothing ever happened fully Back in motion . no pain. Yup she’s that good . Thanks

January 11, 2025

April Jones

I went in for a consultation on Jan 16,2025 to schedule a surgery on a few teeth at the bottom (extra teeth that didn't fall out when I was an adolescent) ( I'm a referral from Church Health dental) I stated that I didn't want to be sedated (put to sleep) the Dr. stated that they could do the procedure under local anesthesia (numbing) He confirmed with his colleagues. We agreed to schedule the surgery. I made the appointment for Feb 17th at 9:00a. m. I got a text to confirm the appointment a week or so before the procedure ( I did confirm) I had took off work the day of surgery and the day after.

I got a call 1 hr before the surgery at 8:00a. m. from the Dr. to inform me that his colleagues didn't feel comfortable with during the procedure under local anesthesia ( He was still confident that it still could be done with just numbing) So they canceled the appointment due to me not feeling comfortable with being sedated at all( no prior surgeries in my life) So I also asked if I could have a family member in the room if I considered the sedation they stated no. So again the appointment was canceled. I was out of work for those 2 days still.

Why would a practice wait the day of surgery to tell you no we can't proceed with the scheduled procedure. Instead of reaching out to me weeks or days before so I could have prepared myself and my finances in such a better way then the option that was given to me. ( They had a month to do this in a more professional manner) But they wasted my time instead such a bummer I heard they are best guess I will never know. Hopefully this doesn't happen to anyone else.

February 19, 2025

jo russo-tiesse

I had my orientation appointment on March 24, 2025, with Sarah Balsley, who took me through a very detailed medical questionnaire. She explained her thoughts about my dental issues and I will be meeting with her next week to discuss the treatment plan going forward. I feel very comfortable and confident in Sarah's care.

March 27, 2025