Detailed Introduction
The Detroit Mercy Dental Center is a prominent dental clinic operating under the umbrella of the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry. Established in 1932, the School of Dentistry has a rich history of providing dental education and patient care, evolving from its initial location to its current state-of-the-art facility on the Corktown Campus in Detroit, Michigan.
As a teaching institution, the Detroit Mercy Dental Center primarily functions as a patient care clinic where student doctors and dental hygienists gain practical experience by providing comprehensive dental services. These services are delivered under the direct supervision of experienced and licensed faculty dentists, ensuring a high standard of care. This model also allows the clinic to offer services at a reduced rate compared to private practices, making quality dental care more accessible and affordable for the community.
The range of services offered at the Detroit Mercy Dental Center is extensive, covering general dentistry, various specialties, and emergency care. Patients can receive routine exams, X-rays, cleanings, fillings, crowns, bridges, dentures, and cosmetic dentistry procedures like tooth whitening and veneers. Specialized services include periodontics (gum treatment), implant placement and restoration, root canal treatment (endodontics), orthodontics (braces), oral surgery (including extractions), and pediatric dental care. The center also provides walk-in emergency dental services for immediate concerns such as severe pain or swelling.
In addition to the student clinical program, the Detroit Mercy Dental Center also has a Faculty Practice. This component offers a private practice-like environment where patients can receive care directly from the highly trained faculty members who are current on the latest developments in the dental field. This ensures that even complex cases or those requiring highly specialized expertise can be managed within the same facility.
The mission of the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry, which encompasses the Dental Center, is rooted in the Jesuit and Mercy traditions. It is committed to creating and sustaining a community of dedicated healthcare professionals focused on excellent patient care and community wellness through evidence-based scholarly activity, research, teaching, and service. Their values emphasize lifelong learning, respect, integrity, service, and excellence. The center actively engages in community service initiatives, including outreach programs, oral health education, and providing care to underserved populations, reflecting its commitment to social responsibility and developing socially and ethically sensitive dental professionals.
The facility itself is modern and well-equipped, featuring 190 clinical operatories, state-of-the-art classrooms, and a simulation laboratory. This infrastructure supports both the educational and patient care aspects of the institution. While appointments in the student clinic may take longer due to the educational setting, patients benefit from thorough examinations and affordable care. The Detroit Mercy Dental Center plays a crucial role in improving oral health in Detroit and beyond, both by training future dental professionals and by serving as a vital healthcare resource for the community.
