History of the UMC School of Dentistry
Established in March 1973, the University of Mississippi Medical Center
School of Dentistry hired its first dean in January 1974, and enrolled
its first class in September 1975. For 30 years, the school has met
its legislated missions of educating general dental practitioners for
Mississippi, providing continuing education for the state's dental health
professionals, conducting dental research and providing dental service
for the state.
School of Dentistry graduates comprise approximately 40 percent of
the active practicing dentists in Mississippi, while more than 70 percent
of the school's graduates practice in Mississippi. Two postdoctoral
programs - a general practice residency with six residents and an advanced
education in general dentistry with five residents - strongly support
and enhance the school's missions.
Current enrollment in the only dental school in Mississippi stands
at 120 students, each of whom join the school's outstanding faculty
and staff in their commitment to serving the state and the dental profession.