Through a unique and innovative curriculum, the School of Dental Medicine prepares students for the practice of general dentistry, specifically for underserved communities. LECOM’s evidence-based, quality dental education program will train students to provide patient-centered care, optimal therapeutic and economic outcomes, promote disease prevention and enhance patient and provider education. 

LECOM offers the Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree through a full-time, four-year pathway at the Bradenton campus. The curriculum consists of two years of basic science and pre-clinical instruction delivered through case-based, small group Problem-Based Learning (PBL) sessions, as well as lectures, laboratories and introductory clinical experiences. Years three and four offer primarily hands-on, clinical experiences.

PBL courses will integrate medical and dental students. Other unique components of the curriculum include faculty directed self-study of gross anatomy; early exposure to dentistry in the first year by working as dental assistants in local primary care dental clinics; direct comprehensive patient care in the first year; a patient-based simulation-clinic; and the entire fourth year devoted to primary care clinics in underserved areas in Florida and in Erie.

Faculty members will assess professional competencies through the program as they empower students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work effectively in interprofessional, interdisciplinary and multicultural environments.