Becoming a Patient

Thank you for your interest in becoming a patient at the University at Buffalo (UB) School of Dental Medicine. As a patient you will make an important contribution to the education of our dental students. Prior to acceptance we require prospective patients to fill out an application and proceed through a 'Screening Appointment.'

• Please read this informational sheet carefully.
• Complete the enclosed Patient Application and return with $48.00 or Medicaid Insurance information in the enclosed envelope. DO NOT SEND CASH Please make check or money order payable to: School of Dental Medicine

WHY IS AN APPLICATION FEE REQUIRED?

The non-refundable fee of $48.00 has been set to cover the cost of establishing a patient record, processing the information, the initial evaluation and a panoramic radiograph (x-ray). Medicaid* eligible patients are not required to include the fee with your application, however you must provide us with enough information to determine your eligibility for Medicaid coverage. Fees are subject to change, so timely return of your application fee is encouraged. [*We DO NOT participate in the Family Health Plus Insurance program.]

WHAT CAN I EXPECT AT THE SCREENING APPOINTMENT?

Your screening appointment will consist of the following: 1) A faculty member will review your medical and dental health histories.(forms will be sent upon receipt of screening fee or Medicaid Insurance information) 2) A disposable mirror will be used for a brief glimpse of your oral condition. 3) A panoramic radiograph (x-ray) will be ordered if you have not had one taken within the past 2 years. 4) The x-ray will be reviewed by our clinical faculty after your screening appointment has been completed. 5) You will receive a complimentary toothbrush and floss. Patients who do not qualify to participate in our clinical educational program will be notified in writing. We regret that all patients screened cannot be accepted for dental care. Your treatment may be too complex for student dentists and may be best managed by a private dentist.

DENTAL TREATMENT WILL NOT BE FREE. HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?

The fees charged are substantially less than the cost of care from a private dentist and treatment progresses more slowly. The lower fees are offered to compensate for the longer treatment time and more frequent visits. Your estimated fees will be presented to you along with a treatment plan before any substantial treatment is begun, however, payment is required at time of service.

HOW LONG ARE APPOINTMENTS?

Since we are a teaching facility, the length of your appointments and overall treatment will likely take longer than it would from a private dentist. High standards are required of our student dentists, and their work is continually being evaluated by our clinical faculty. You should therefore expect to spend between 2 to 3 hours per appointment. This attention to detail requires more of your time, but assures you of quality dental care. If your schedule is such that it is difficult for you to come frequently and stay for the rather lengthy appointments often required, then you should consider seeking care from a private dentist.

MY CHILDREN NEED DENTAL CARE, WHO CAN I CONTACT?

The UB School of Dental Medicine has a Pediatric Dental Department which specializes in dental care for toddlers, children and adolescents (ages 3-13). This department handles their own screening appointments and you may contact them directly for additional information at (716) 829-2723. The UB School of Dental Medicine is not a participant in the CHP (Child Health Plus) Insurance Program.

MY CHILDREN MAY NEED BRACES, WHO CAN I CONTACT?

The School of Dental Medicine has an Orthodontic Department which specializes in correcting problems associated with spacing and crowding of teeth. This department offers screening at various times of the year. For acceptance into their clinics, you may contact them directly for additional information at (716) 829-2845.

CLINIC HOURS

Clinic hours are 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:00 to 4:00 PM Monday through Friday. Clinics are closed weekends and some holidays which are recognized by the University.

Upon receipt of the Screening Fee ($48.00) or Medicaid Insurance information, additional forms as well as clinic location and parking information will be sent to you at the time of appointment scheduling.

Expect delays in processing your application if it is returned incomplete and/or failure to include the $48.00 application fee or Medicaid Insurance information.