University of Iowa College of Dentistry
100 Dental Sciences Bldg.
Iowa City, IA 52242-1010
319-335-9650

The University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dr. William C. Rubright support Preventive Dentistry

PREVENTIVE DENTISTRY

WHY IS PREVENTIVE DENTISTRY IMPORTANT AND WHEN SHOULD
YOU START?

Preventive Dentistry means a healthy smile that requires fewer visits to the Dentist:

1. Eating becomes more enjoyable because healthy mouths chew more easily
   and gain more nutrients from the foods they eat.
2. You can also speak more quickly and clearly.
3. People with healthier mouths have a better chance of general health, because disease in the mouth can endanger the rest of the body.
4. A healthy mouth is more attractive, and you can have confidence that you are putting forth your best appearance.
5. Preventive Dentistry is the first step to becoming cavity-free.

Preventive dentistry begins Regular Tooth brushing.
The earlier your dental visit, the better the chance of preventing dental disease and reducing your time in the Dentist’s Chair
Visit your dentist for a complete examination to lay the foundations for having the best in dental health.

Read more: http://www.soundentistry.com/univ-colorado-dental-school/#ixzz1KpMLrQMS

Support Dental Education

Dental Care at the College of Dentistry

Welcome to the College of Dentistry

The College of Dentistry has been serving the dental needs of Iowans since 1882. We are proud to be a leader in professional education, patient service, and dental research. The finest staff, facilities, and equipment are combined with the most up-to-date and comprehensive treatment techniques and materials to ensure excellent dental care for all ages. Each year approximately 9,000 patients come to the College, resulting in 118,000 patient visits. The large number of patients gives us a depth of experience to treat every dental problem in an appropriate way. Our goal is to treat every patient as our only patient.

If you need information or assistance, please consult the collegiate phone directory.

• New Patient Appointments:

  • Adults - (319) 335-7499

  • Children - (319) 335-7485

• General Phone Numbers:

  • Main Reception Desk (Third floor link) -(319) 335-9650

  • Patient Reception Desk - (319) 335-7499

  • Patient Representative - (319) 335-6579

  • Business Office - (319) 335-7440

  • Pharmacy - (319) 335-7435

• Contact Forms:

  • For general questions
  • Prospective predoctoral dental students
  • Prospective postdoctoral dental students
  • Questions / comments about our website

• Special Dentistry for Infants & Children:

  • Center for Disabilities & Development - (319) 353-6711

• Special Care Programs:

  • Geriatric Mobile Unit - (319) 335-7372

  • Geriatric & Special Care Clinics - (319) 335-7372

    • Hours:

      • Normal Business Hours:

        • 8a.m. - 5p.m. Monday - Friday

      • After-Hours Emergency call University Hospital Information (319-356-1616)

        • Adults: ask for Oral Surgery resident on-call.
        • Children: ask for pediatric dental resident on-call

    • Clinic Phone Numbers:

      • Dental Clinical Research Center - (319) 335-9557 or 335-7414

      • Endodontics - (319) 335-7469

      • Family Dentistry - (319) 335-7316

      • Implant Clinic - (319) 335-7169

      • Operative Dentistry - (319) 335-7217

      • Oral Diagnosis - (319) 335-7346

      • Oral & Maxillofacial Radiology - (319) 335-7345

      • Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery-DSB - (319) 335-7457

      • Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery-UIHC - (319) 356-2743

      • Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery-Hawkeye Clinic -(319) 338-6637

      • Oral Medicine - (319) 335-9656

      • Oral Pathology - (319) 335-9656

      • Orthodontics - (319) 335-7287

      • Pediatric Dentistry-DSB - (319) 335-7485

      • Pediatric Dentistry-CDD - (319) 353-6711

      • Pediatric Dentistry-Muscatine Outreach Clinic - (563) 263-0895

      • Periodontics - (319) 335-7232

      • Preventive Dentistry - (319) 335-7255

      • Prosthodontics - (319) 335-7274

UI Phonebook & Email Directory

• Address:

  • The University of Iowa
    College of Dentistry
    Dental Science Building
    Iowa City, IA 52242

Patient Service Goal

Our ultimate goal is to ensure that all patients receive quality dentistry in a caring, personal manner. We offer many services and options.

• Provider Options for Patients
• Becoming a Patient
• Clinic Services
• Other Services

Provider Options for Patients

We welcome everyone to our clinics, and provide comprehensive and referral dental services. Patients requesting student care are first evaluated by faculty dentists in Admissions. Treatment may be recommended by one of the following providers: students, residents, or faculty. Excellent dentistry will be provided with all three options.

1. Student Clinics are carefully supervised by faculty. Extra time and additional appointments may be required for treatment. Your contribution to our educational program results in a reduced fee. To schedule an appointment, call  (319) 335-7499.

2. Residents are dentists who are post-doctoral students specializing in one of the dental areas of expertise. Graduate fees are offered.

3. Faculty dentists have a group private practice at the College. Fees and time commitment are comparable to private practice. All dental specialties are available for consultation and special treatment needs. This allows for convenient and easily coordinated referrals.

4. Recall Programs. All provider options offer comprehensive oral examinations and teeth cleanings to help maintain dental health.

5. Special Care Clinic. For the convenience of the elderly and medically complex adult over 18 years of age, dental services are offered in one easily accessible location. Phone (319) 335-7373; Geriatric Mobile Unit - dentistry-gmu@uiowa.edu

Return to top of page

Return to top of page

Office of Clinical Research:  Providing comprehensive dental care with opportunities to participate in clinical research trials. Phone (319) 335-7414 or (319) 335-9557.

Endodontics: Root canal treatment and related surgery is provided for diseases of the pulp and bone and injuries to the teeth to preserve healthy teeth in a natural state. Phone (319) 335-7469.

Family Dentistry: Simulating private practice, dental students provide comprehensive dental treatment. Phone (319) 335-7316.

 Implant Clinic: The clinic provides dental implants as permanent replacements for patients with missing teeth. Phone (319) 335-7169.

Operative Dentistry: Restoring decayed or broken teeth with amalgam, gold, and tooth-colored materials. Phone (319) 335-7217.

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery: Providing diagnosis and surgical treatment of diseases, injuries, and defects of the teeth and mouth. Phone (319) 335-7457.

Oral Pathology, Radiology and Medicine: Treating pain and problems associated with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), as well as infections of the mouth. Diagnostic services include radiographs (x rays), clinical and laboratory studies, and comprehensive examinations. Treatment services are provided in the Radiology Clinic, the specializedPain Clinic, and the Mucosal Disease Clinic (soft tissue of the head and neck region). Phone (319) 335-9656.

Orthodontics: Straightening teeth for both children and adults, and treating problems related to growth and development of the jaws. A special early treatment program is available for small children. Phone (319) 335-7287.

Pediatric Dentistry: Providing comprehensive dental care for children six months to 15 years, with emphasis on preventive dental health. A program for children with special health needs is also available. Phone (319) 335-7485.

Periodontics: Preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the mouth, and maintaining healthy gums. Phone (319) 335-7232.

Preventive Dentistry Providing dental preventive services including cleaning and polishing teeth, instruction and counseling in oral hygiene, nutrition, and the maintenance of oral health. Phone (319) 335-7255.

Prosthodontics: Designing, constructing, and fitting crowns, fixed bridges, and immediate, complete and partial dentures. Phone (319) 335-7274.

Return to top of page

Research: Another important mission of the College is research. Many of our staff members are nationally and internationally recognized in their fields. Their research focuses on the latest methods and materials and also provides an outstanding atmosphere of learning for our students.

Service programs: The College provides a mobile clinic unit which travels to nursing homes in seven counties surrounding Iowa City. Student clinicians provide dental treatment to residents. In addition, senior students spend part of their year providing dental treatment in clinics for disadvantaged patients in Des Moines and Cedar Rapids.

Continuing Education: The college coordinates and implements continuing education seminars for all practicing dentists in the state of Iowa.

Infection Control: We are concerned about protecting patients from the spread of infectious diseases. All instruments and handpieces used in dental care are sterilized and meet all Centers for Disease Control guidelines. Practitioners are required to wear clean, protective clothing, and to carefully sterilize the operatory between patients. You may request protective eyewear during appointments.

Child Care: Babysitting services are not available at the College. Please arrange to have someone care for your child while you are being treated.

Thank you for your interest in the College of Dentistry. Because your dental health is important to us, we want to be a resource for information and treatment.

You may also wish to consult the Faculty Directory

Driving directions:

From the North (Cedar Rapids)

• Take I-380 south. At mile marker 0, I-380 south becomes Hwy 218 south.
• Continue on Hwy 218 south 3 miles to Melrose Avenue (exit 93) and turn left.
• Continue on Melrose Avenue 2.4 miles to Hawkins Drive and turn left.
• Continue on Hawkins Drive .5 miles to Elliott Drive and turn right.
• Turn right again at the College of Dentistry driveway, then turn left to enter the patient parking lot.

From the South (Burlington)

• Take Hwy 218 north to Melrose Avenue (exit 93) and turn right.
• Continue on Melrose Avenue 2.4 miles to Hawkins Drive and turn left.
• Continue on Hawkins Drive .5 miles to Elliott Drive and turn right.
• Turn right again at the College of Dentistry driveway, then turn left to enter the patient parking lot.

From the East (Quad Cities)

• Take I-80 west to 1st Avenue (exit 242) and turn left.
• Continue on 1st Avenue 1.2 miles to Hwy 6 / 2nd Street and turn left.
• Continue on Hwy 6 / 2nd Street .4 miles to Hawkins Drive and turn right.
• Continue on Hawkins Drive .4 miles to Elliott Drive and turn left.
• Turn right at the College of Dentistry driveway, then turn left to enter the patient parking lot.

From the West (Des Moines)

• Take I-80 east to 1st Avenue (exit 242) and turn right.
• Continue on 1st Avenue 1.2 miles to Hwy 6 / 2nd Street and turn left.
• Continue on Hwy 6 / 2nd Street .4 miles to 1st stoplight at Hawkins Drive and turn right.
• Continue on Hawkins Drive .4 miles to Elliott Drive and turn left.
• Turn right at the College of Dentistry driveway, then turn left to enter the patient parking lot.

Parking Information

Patients and visitors to the Dental Science Building may park in the visitor's parking lot located next to the Dental Science Building. An hourly rate is charged.

Public Transit

• Cambus:

  These yellow buses serve the University and downtown areas of Iowa City. Both the "Red Route" and the "Blue Route" buses will stop at the Dental Science Building on Newton road. They are free of charge.

• Coralville Transit:

  These blue buses serve the Coralville community. Every Coralville Transit bus will stop at the Dental Science Building on Newton Rd.

• Iowa City Transit:

  These gray buses serve the Iowa City community. The "Westwinds", "Plaenview" and "Manville Heights" routes will stop at the Dental Science Building on Newton Rd.

   

   

  Replacement of Extracted Teeth

  Why do teeth need to be extracted?

  Our first priority is to save teeth, as it is usually important to the patient's long-term dental and general health to maintain the teeth. Extraction is an option when a damaged or decayed tooth cannot be restored, or when extensive treatment would be necessary to try to save the tooth, but the patient chooses not to proceed with necessary treatment.

  Why is an exam necessary before getting teeth extracted?

  An examination must occur before the appointment for an extraction. The examination of the patient's mouth, radiographs (x-rays), and dental and medical history helps determine if the tooth can be saved. If not, the dentist is able to provide treatment options and information about what to expect before, during and after extraction. Questions or concerns can be discussed at this time.

  What happens after a tooth is extracted?

  The patient will be told what to expect after treatment and what to do in case of emergency. Possible complications are unusual, but will be explained, and are also included on the consent form. A recall appointment may be necessary a few days after extraction to check the healing site. Further appointments will be made to begin the process of replacement of teeth.

  How long does it take to heal?

  Usually, the wound site takes about 6 weeks to heal. During that time, bone is generated to fill the space and the soft tissue grows to fill the gum line. Any replacement for the missing teeth except an immediate denture must wait until the extraction site has healed.

  What other procedures may be required before replacing teeth?

  Several dental procedures may be needed to prepare the mouth for replacement of missing teeth. They include: 

  • Oral Diagnosis: A comprehensive treatment plan is usually necessary after extraction to determine options for further treatment. Radiology: More radiographs may be needed.
  • Endodontics: Other teeth in the area may need root canal treatment in order to place a crown to anchor a bridge or partial denture.
  • Oral Surgery: Bone and/or gum tissue may need to be reshaped.
  • Orthodontics: If teeth are crowded, too spaced, or crooked they may need to be straightened before bridges can be attached
  • Periodontics: If there is not enough tooth structure above the gums of adjacent teeth or a deep pocket of infection, surgery called crown lengthening may be necessary before a bridge can be placed.

  What kind of restorations might replace missing teeth?

  There are many options for replacement of teeth, with varying fees for service:

  • Bridge: One or two teeth are replaced by having a tooth made of metal anchored on either side by crowns on the adjacent teeth.
  • Complete Upper Denture: All teeth are missing in the upper arch.
  • Complete Lower Denture: All teeth are missing in the lower arch.
  • Immediate Denture: The denture is made prior to extraction and is fitted right after teeth are extracted. This procedure is more expensive and will need replacement at the patient's expense, usually within one year.
  • Removable Partial Denture: Some teeth are missing and the denture fits onto two or more remaining teeth.
  • Processed Reline: A denture is relined with acrylic to accommodate the new shape of the gums following extraction or subsequent shrinkage of the gums.
  • Implant: One or more teeth are replaced by inserting metal posts into the upper or lower jaw. A crown, bridge or denture is attached to the metal post(s).

  What is the cost of extraction?

  The cost depends on the number of teeth being removed and replaced and which procedures are chosen for replacement. Additionally, fees vary depending upon the practitioner providing the treatment. There are three types of practitioners at the College:

  1) dental students under the supervision of faculty,

  2) dentists receiving advanced specialty training, and

  3) faculty.

  
  Please ask for a cost estimate before treatment begins.

  How long will it take before teeth are replaced?

  Due to heavy demand for the College's services and the academic schedule, there may be unavoidable delays in our ability to provide replacement teeth.We encourage each patient to have a comprehensive examination, so they will be informed of treatment options as well as availability of replacement appointments before proceeding with the extractions.