UAB Dentistry opens a new clinic in Dothan

Big news for southeast Alabama—UAB School of Dentistry is making a new home in Dothan! On February 26, a ribbon cutting ceremony marked the beginning of UAB Dentistry Dothan.

This first-of-its-kind clinic was created to recruit and train dentists to help improve the dental health of those across the Wiregrass.

First-of-its-kind clinic opens in Dothan

According to a press release from UAB, this project is supported by a $3.4 million appropriation from the state. To address the shortage of dental health providers in rural Alabama, this clinic will help prepare the next generation of dentists committed to practicing in these neighborhoods.

“We are excited to provide the same world-class dental care and clinical training that is available at UAB School of Dentistry to the residents in the Wiregrass area.

This clinic allows us to provide a variety of comprehensive dental services to those in this area, alongside vital training to our students as we teach them how to provide quality, dependable oral health care in a rural community.”

Nancy Hein Covert, DMD, clinic director, UAB Dentistry Dothan

For now, the clinic is staffed by UAB School of Dentistry faculty. However, the plan is to fill up the staff with residents and dental students as they prepare to practice dentistry in their communities.

Why UAB Dental Dothan is needed

The American Dental Association ranks Alabama 51st in the country for access to dental care. In Dothan, there are approximately 60 general dentists for nearly 500,000 people within a 50-mile radius.

As a Dothan native myself, I’m excited to see this addition in my hometown. I know this clinic will continue to provide top-notch care for Dothan residents and beyond.

What do you think of this first-of-its-kind clinic in the Wiregrass? Tag us @thebamabuzz + let us know!