Education – The UCLA School of Dentistry consistently admits one of the most diverse and academically talented dental student classes. The members of the Class of 2009 hail from 12 states, are split nearly evenly between men and women, averaged a total science score of 21.8 on the DAT and entered with majors in subjects from geography to neuroscience. Demonstrating a commitment to excellence in clinical practice, nearly two-thirds of UCLA’s graduates are motivated to seek additional training in general dentistry and specialty areas. UCLA maintains its commitment to lifelong education by operating the largest continuing education program among U.S. dental schools.

Research – Scientists at the UCLA School of Dentistry are conducting revolutionary research at the forefront of 21st Century dental medicine. Our researchers have found a way to predict tooth decay before it occurs; detect osteoporosis in a jaw X-ray, synthesize a “smart” anti-microbial that targets and kills only unhealthful bacteria; identify the earliest signs of cancer in saliva; and isolate a protein responsible for generating bone. Pursuing these and other avenues of scientific inquiry, our researchers plan to revolutionize the face of health care tomorrow, placing the dental office on the front lines of preventing and diagnosing oral and systemic human disease.

Patient Care – The UCLA School of Dentistry provides public service through its ongoing, comprehensive patient care programs and its many community outreach activities. Our students, residency clinics and faculty practices conduct approximately 150,000 patient visits per year; treating everyone from infants to the elderly in an effort to meet the oral health needs of a largely underserved population. The School also participates in a number of community activities led by faculty and students to provide oral health screenings, fluoride, sealants and other care to homeless individuals and low-income families.