2nd Floor
(205) 934-2700

Most new adult patients begin here.

At the UAB School of Dentistry, patients receive comprehensive dental treatment from senior dental students under the direct supervision of licensed faculty dentists. Faculty members review and approve treatment plans and are involved throughout each appointment to ensure high standards of care.

Call (205) 934-2700 to schedule your initial screening appointment.

How Comprehensive Care Works

Comprehensive Care operates within an academic teaching environment. Your care is structured differently than in a traditional private practice.

Step 1: Initial Screening & Treatment Planning

All new patients begin with a paid screening appointment. During this visit:

• A comprehensive oral examination is completed
• Diagnostic X-rays are taken as needed
• Your oral health needs are evaluated
• A full treatment plan is developed and discussed with you

Cleanings are typically not performed at the first visit. Care is sequenced based on your individual treatment needs.

Because each patient’s dental needs are unique, we are unable to provide an accurate cost estimate for treatment until a patient is evaluated through an initial exam by one of our faculty, residents or dental students.

Step 2: Sequenced Treatment

After you and your care team finalize your treatment plan, appointments are scheduled in clinical priority order. Preventive and restorative care are completed over multiple visits.

Appointments may be longer than in private practice due to the educational setting.

Continuity of Care

You will be assigned a student provider who manages your care plan from diagnosis through treatment.

Because students graduate, care may occasionally be transitioned to another student clinician to ensure completion of your treatment plan. Faculty oversee all transitions to maintain continuity and quality of care.

Why Many Patients Choose Comprehensive Care

Patients often tell us they value:

• The time and attention provided during appointments
• Working consistently with the same student clinician
• Faculty supervision throughout treatment
• Fees can be up to about 50% lower than private practice

Many patients appreciate being part of the educational process and supporting the next generation of dentists.

Services Offered

Comprehensive Care provides general dental services for adult patients, including:

• Exams and digital X-rays
• Cleanings (scheduled after initial evaluation)
• Fillings
• Crowns and bridges
• Dentures
• Comprehensive treatment planning
• Referral to specialty clinics when needed

If you are unsure where to begin, Comprehensive Care is typically the appropriate starting point.

Payment & Insurance

Comprehensive Care services are offered at reduced fees compared to most private dental practices.

Payment is due at the time of service. For detailed information about insurance participation and billing policies, please visit our Billing & Insurance page or call (205) 934-2700.

Is Comprehensive Care Right for You?

This clinic may be a good fit if you:

• Are seeking reduced-cost dental care
• Understand that care begins with a diagnostic screening visit
• Are comfortable receiving treatment in a supervised educational setting
• Value thorough, sequenced treatment planning

If you are seeking a one-time cleaning without evaluation, Comprehensive Care may not be the best option.

If you are experiencing a dental emergency, please visit our Emergency Care page.