UAB Dentistry Dothandental_clinic in Dothan, AL

UAB Dentistry Dothan is a satellite clinic and key initiative of the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) School of Dentistry, the only dental school in Alabama. It was established with a clear mission: to address the significant shortage of dental providers in the state's rural areas and improve the overall oral health of residents in the Wiregrass region. The clinic, located in the Health Center South Medical Tower in Dothan, is a collaborative effort supported by a $3.4 million appropriation from the state of Alabama, as well as contributions from The University of Alabama System, local leaders, and donors. The clinic serves a dual purpose as both a patient care facility and a teaching institution. It is staffed by UAB School of Dentistry faculty and offers a wide range of comprehensive dental services for patients of all ages, including preventive care, restorative treatments, and cosmetic services. A distinctive feature of the clinic is its educational model, which involves dental students participating in mandatory rotations under the direct supervision of experienced faculty. This not only provides valuable, hands-on training for future dentists but also allows the clinic to offer high-quality care at a reduced fee for patients. UAB Dentistry Dothan is equipped with modern technology, including a TRIOS 5 Wireless Intraoral Scanner for 3D digital impressions and panoramic radiography. With eight exam chairs, the facility has the capacity to handle over 10,000 patient visits annually. The long-term goal of the clinic is to identify, recruit, and train students who are committed to practicing in rural Alabama, thereby creating a sustainable solution to the state's dental workforce challenges. The clinic's establishment is seen as a model that could be replicated in other underserved areas.