As she prepares to graduate from the UAB School of Dentistry, Hannah Thomas (D.M.D. Class of 2026) reflects on the moments that have shaped her experience most. From early mission work that first sparked her interest in dentistry to meaningful relationships built chairside, she’s found that confidence grows through connection. For her, dental school has been as much about learning to care for people as it has been about developing clinical skill.
Where are you from, and where did you complete your undergraduate and graduate studies?
My hometown is Huntsville, Alabama. I went to undergrad at Lubbock Christian University in Lubbock, Texas, where I majored in biology with a minor in chemistry. After that, I earned my master’s in biomedical and health sciences here at UAB.
What drew you to dentistry?
I grew up going on a lot of medical mission trips to Baja, Mexico, Peru, and other countries. During one of those trips, I remember working with a dentist who was able to relieve patients’ pain without even speaking the same language. That’s what sparked an interest in me, and that passion just grew into pursuit of a career in dentistry.
Why did you choose UAB for dental school?
I chose UAB for dental school because they have such an outreach program, and they go into the different or underserved communities of Alabama, and that's where I plan to serve.
The clinical experience I’ve gained here has really prepared me for my future, especially as someone who hopes to one day own a private practice.
Are you involved in any student organizations?
I’m vice president of the UAB Sports Dentistry organization. We’re trying to bridge the gap between dentistry and sports. And so, we bring in people like the Auburn team dentist. He'll come in and talk about custom night guards.
We also organize events like an annual beach volleyball tournament and a pickleball tournament that bring together dental students, residents, and faculty. It’s always fun, especially since our dean gets very competitive.
And then I'm heavily involved in the student ambassadors for UAB School of Dentistry. I love seeing people who are interested in dentistry – specifically interested in pursuing dentistry at UAB – coming in and asking me questions on how the daily life is. And I get to express my passion and my love for UAB.
Have any faculty members made a particular impact on your dental education?
So many faculty members have shaped my clinical skills, patient management, and leadership in the clinic. Dr. Teichmiller has made a huge impact. She has extensive private practice experience and is incredibly gentle with her patients, and I try to model that every time I bring a patient in. Dr. Chavali has also played an important role, especially in helping me focus on functional esthetics while maintaining a calm, thoughtful approach with patients.
Beyond individual mentors, the entire culture at UAB Dentistry has meant a great deal to me. We are such a family here. From day one, I felt like a colleague rather than just a number or a first-year student. As a D4, I see how faculty intentionally nurture a culture that prepares us for the future, while also encouraging us to teach and support students coming up behind us.
I really enjoy working with third-year, first-year, and second-year students in clinic, sharing what I know and reinforcing how connected we are as a dental community, even beyond graduation.
Can you share a clinical experience that has stayed with you?
One of my favorite cases was a patient I worked with alongside Dr. Teichmiller from beginning to end. She came in with severe pain and very little trust in dental providers. Over six months of treatment, she developed trust in me and even a friendship. I was able to help transform her smile into something both functional and comfortable for her.
After treatment, she texted me to say she could eat steak again. That moment really showed me how much trust matters and how dentistry can truly change someone’s quality of life.
What has been one of your favorite School of Dentistry memories or events?
Mandiball is definitely a favorite. It’s a chance to dress up, celebrate the year together, and just enjoy time with friends. Field Day is another highlight. It brings out everyone’s competitive side with events like tug-of-war and musical chairs.
What I love most is that while UAB students aren’t competitive academically in a negative way, we’re incredibly supportive. If someone is struggling, people feel comfortable reaching out for help. We know each other’s strengths, and we lean on one another. That sense of teamwork carries over beyond graduation, too.
UAB School of Dentistry has brought me the closest friends, the best mentors, and such a close-knit community. I'm so excited to see where all of my classmates go after graduation. And I encourage anyone who's even thinking about applying to dental school to do it, because it's amazing. It's a mix of art and science, and there's so much creativity in it, and the world becomes your oyster once you graduate.
— Hannah Thomas
What do you consider your greatest accomplishment so far at UAB?
One of my greatest accomplishments has been developing confidence in treating patients comprehensively while building genuine relationships with them. Communication and empathy go a long way. Being able to understand a patient’s situation, even if I haven’t experienced it myself, helps build trust and makes a real difference in their care.
It’s been such an accomplishment for me to have patients come into my chair with severe anxiety and leave talking about their families and their lives. I make it a point to learn something personal about each patient and carry that forward into future visits. And, you know, they feel seen in that aspect.
What is the most important lesson you’ve learned?
There’s so many.
I think the most important thing, I’ve learned not to underestimate the power of communication, whether with patients or faculty. Sharing ideas and asking for guidance is always welcomed with open arms here. Keeping an open mind has helped me grow, especially knowing that dentistry often involves multiple treatment options and collaborative decision-making.
Feeling comfortable asking for help has been essential as I prepare to graduate and move into the next phase of my career.
What are your plans after graduation?
So, after graduation, I’ll be completing a one-year Advanced Education in General Dentistry program at Foundry Dental Center. After that, I plan to practice in the Birmingham area, likely within 35 to 45 minutes of the city.
What advice would you give to prospective dental students?
I think the best advice – dental school is hard. There are highs and lows, and there will be moments of stress. I’ve cried. But it’s worth it. The memories, the relationships, and the growth – you'll realize that the struggle is worth it.
The ride is worth it all. You see the light at the end of the tunnel, and you're so thankful for the memories that you have had with your friends. The memories of being in lab for hours. And just the experience that you get and the just relationships that you build with the faculty who stay mentors after graduation.
Just go for it. Go all in. And just really get the most out of it that you can. Because we were only here for four years, and then the remaining time is unknown. So, take advantage and live in the present.
Student Voices is a Q&A series highlighting the experiences and perspectives of UAB School of Dentistry students. Explore our Student Excellence news feed to read more Student Voices stories.
Curious to hear more Student Voices? Visit our Student Excellence news feed for more Q&As with UAB dental students.