University of Minnesota program Aims to Address Dental Care Shortages in Rural Communities
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – A new career track at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry is preparing students to address critical dental care shortages in rural areas of the state. The Rural Dentistry Career Track,launched to equip dentists with the skills and connections needed to thrive in underserved communities,focuses on both clinical expertise and community engagement.
Many students entering the program haven’t grown up in rural settings, potentially leading to feelings of isolation. The track emphasizes building trust with residents through professional and social networks.
“For students interested in working in rural communities, it can feel intimidating because they are often the only dentist in the county,” says Susan McKernan, associate professor and director of the track. “We want to make sure students can feel confident to go out and be that dentist.”
The program’s curriculum prepares students to handle a broad spectrum of dental issues,reducing the need for patient referrals to specialists in urban centers. Over four years, students will study rural population health, dental practice management, health policy, and advocacy, culminating in a rotation at a rural dental clinic.
Establishing a strong professional network is a key component, offering ongoing support and reducing feelings of isolation. The track’s cohort of 15 students participates in small group activities to foster a sense of community.
“Just getting to know each other as they go through dental school builds a community for them when they graduate,” McKernan explains.
Each student is also paired with a practicing rural dentist mentor, providing real-world guidance. Michael Henderson, a clinical assistant professor and director of the Mobile Dental Clinic, coordinates the mentorship program.
“Having that connection with a rural dentist while they’re in school adds an extra layer of preparing our students for the real world,” says Henderson. “To have someone to be able to talk to, bounce ideas off of, and introduce them to things happening in rural practice is very valuable.”
The University hopes the program will deliver not only skilled dentists, but also vital support to communities facing limited access to dental care.
More facts about the rural Dentistry Career Track can be found at https://dentistry.umn.edu/doctor-dental-surgery/dental-career-tracks-program/rural-dentistry-career-track.
