MUSC James B. Edwards College of Dental Medicine

MUSC James B. Edwards College of Dental Medicine South Carolina's only dental school, we are innovating the future of oral health and wellness. degrees in June 1971. Edwards. The James B.
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In 1952, the South Carolina Dental Association sponsored a study of South Carolina's needs in dental education. The results indicated a growing need for a school of dentistry within the state and it was recommended that one be established as an integral unit of the Medical College of South Carolina. In 1953, the General Assembly of South Carolina passed an act authorizing the development of a school of dentistry as part of the Medical College of South Carolina; however it was not until the 1964 session that the legislature funded that 1953 authorization. In May 1964, by action of the Board of Trustees of the Medical College, a dean was appointed for the school of dentistry. Within a short time, planning went forward on the new seven-story Basic Sciences/College of Dental Medicine Building. By using existing basic science facilities and temporary dental clinic facilities, it was possible to admit the first class of dental students on September 5, 1967. The new building was ready for occupancy in December 1970, and the first class of students graduated and received their D.M.D. This building, named the MUSC Basic Science building housed the College of Dental Medicine as well as multiple other departments and research facilities. Since it’s founding, the MUSC College of Dental Medicine has grown into one of the most respected dental colleges in the country. Our students consistently score in the country’s top percentiles on their national boards, and competition for admission is extremely high. As South Carolina’s only dental school, the MUSC College of Dental Medicine is an important source of dentists in a state that is currently under-served in terms of dental care. About 75 percent of our graduates have chosen to remain in South Carolina. Over half the state’s dentists today are MUSC graduates. In order to maintain the best patient care, student instruction and research capabilities possible, the Medical University completed a new $61 million dental clinical education center in 2009. In 2010, the College hosted the building’s official grand opening and proudly re-named the College in honor of MUSC President Emeritus James B. Edwards College of Dental Medicine Clinical building is one of the newest and most advanced dental clinic facilities in the nation. It’s bold lines and innovative architecture have helped make this building a leading example for many dental schools currently building new clinical facilities. With over 118,000 square feet, all departments and clinics have enough room to expand as needed while continuing to deliver the highest level of dental care. The Clinical Building is home to 189 dental operatories and the full spectrum of ambulatory outpatient oral health services. In addition to undergraduate programming, the Clinical facility now houses residency programs in Oral Surgery, Periodontics, Endodontics, Pediatric Dentistry, Orthodontics, and Advanced Education in General Dentistry. The facility also houses a stand-alone clinic for patients with Special Health Care Needs. The Clinical facility is fully integrated with an Electronic Health record, and Digital Radiography. State of the art technological advances have been added over time to provide students the best education possible. The Basic Science building holds 69,000 ft. of space, much of it renovated after the Clinical Facility opened. It contains a state of the art simulation laboratory, and newly renovated classrooms and offices. The entire second floor has been renovated to accommodate an increasing research focus.

Alumni Dr. Brandi Hair shares experiences and lessons she learned from her time at our college! MUSC Alumni
04/02/2026

Alumni Dr. Brandi Hair shares experiences and lessons she learned from her time at our college! MUSC Alumni

This Women’s History Month, we proudly celebrate three incredible women whose work is transforming oral health across ou...
03/27/2026

This Women’s History Month, we proudly celebrate three incredible women whose work is transforming oral health across our state:

Dr. Tina Woods
Dr. Woods, Associate Professor and Division Chief of Diagnostic Sciences and Services, is a leader in oral cancer prevention. Through free screenings and community outreach, she advances early detection while inspiring students and colleagues through her commitment to education and service.

Jennifer Cottingham
A rural registered dental hygienist serving at the Lee County Department of Health, Jennifer provides essential care to children in an area facing a dental workforce shortage. Her dedication ensures access to critical services where they are needed most.

Dr. Julie Marshall
Dr. Marshall, Assistant Professor, brings an economist’s perspective to dental care and outreach, she helps shape innovative approaches to improving access and sustainability in oral healthcare systems.

Join us in honoring their impact, leadership, and commitment to advancing dental medicine!

Our ADEA GoDental recruitment team met many future dentists and specialists in Montreal last week. If you were one of th...
03/24/2026

Our ADEA GoDental recruitment team met many future dentists and specialists in Montreal last week. If you were one of them, thanks for saying hello!

Looking for other ways to see what South Carolina's only dental school is like? Explore campus with our virtual tour: https://dentistry.musc.edu/about/tour.

As we reflect on Dental Assistant Recognition Week, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to all of our dental assistan...
03/20/2026

As we reflect on Dental Assistant Recognition Week, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to all of our dental assistants for the incredible work they do every day. Their dedication, compassion, and expertise make a meaningful difference in the lives of our patients.

One of the many dental assistants who continue to improve patient care is Veronica Mejias. During Felix Banuelos’ recent dental visit, Veronica, endodontic assistant, translated between English and Spanish for Mr. Banuelos and Dr. Nico Farrar, endodontic resident.

Multilingual support plays an essential role in how we deliver care. Team members like Veronica help bridge communication gaps, strengthening trust, improving outcomes, and ensuring every patient feels heard and understood. When a multilingual team member is not available, translation services can also be arranged by phone.

“It has helped a lot, especially to expedite some of our treatment,” said Dionne Bennett, clinic manager. “It makes the patients more comfortable, which leads to better care.”

At our annual Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) Give Kids a Smile Day, we welcomed 110 children and their fami...
03/19/2026

At our annual Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) Give Kids a Smile Day, we welcomed 110 children and their families for a day of free dental care, supporting kids without a dental home, while giving our students and residents hands-on pediatric experience supervised by licensed dentists.

Twenty-five percent of the children are already scheduled for follow-ups, helping families take the next step toward lasting oral health.

Our impact is growing statewide through a new partnership with the Lee County Health Department and upcoming rural training initiatives for practicing dentists.

Alumni Weekend always leaves us smiling! Our MUSC Alumni and their families reconnected over Lowcountry oysters and BBQ....
03/18/2026

Alumni Weekend always leaves us smiling! Our MUSC Alumni and their families reconnected over Lowcountry oysters and BBQ. Together, we continue to strengthen a professional community grounded in excellence, collaboration, and purpose.

The homecoming also included continuing education, the inaugural in-person meeting of the Dean's Advisory Council, a memorial service, and a update from Dean Huja.

Plus, we previewed more continuing education offerings in 2026. Check them out here: https://dentistry.musc.edu/programs/continuing-educationalu

King Kong & Godzilla Attack
03/18/2026

King Kong & Godzilla Attack

03/17/2026
Thanks to a tuition waiver approved by the South Carolina legislature, in-state costs for this year were aligned with th...
03/09/2026

Thanks to a tuition waiver approved by the South Carolina legislature, in-state costs for this year were aligned with the national average for dental schools.

The listed cost on our website has not changed, but this waiver provides meaningful financial support for our in-state students.

Pictured here are in-state students Jude Walker, Logan Oxendine, and Devin Stewart, who are three of the many South Carolina students benefiting from this support as they pursue their education and future dental careers

03/06/2026

In this edition of Ask a Dental Professor, oral surgeon Dr. Karen Robinson shares how her years of playing the clarinet have further refined the precision, focus, and hand control she brings to surgery. She also reflects on how learning this musical instrument has shaped the way she teaches and connects with her students and residents - proof that artistry and dentistry go hand in hand.

At our annual Scholars Day, students and residents presented research shaping the future of oral health care. All dental...
03/04/2026

At our annual Scholars Day, students and residents presented research shaping the future of oral health care. All dental students participate in a self-selected, mentored research project in their third year to develop knowledge in an area of interest.

“Scholars Day is a testament to the curiosity, dedication, and innovation of our students and residents,” said Dr. Sumit Yadav, associate dean for research and department chair of Advanced Specialty Sciences.

This year’s keynote, The AI-Augmented Dentist in 2030: Navigating Care, Safety, and the Doctor–Patient Relationship, was delivered by Dr. Muhammad Walji of UTHealth Houston School of Public Health and explored how artificial intelligence is transforming dental practice and patient care.

02/26/2026

We’ll be holding two ✌️ virtual Info Sessions for any students interested in learning more about the 2026 Summer Health Careers Academy, hosted on campus at MUSC from June 8-12. Join us as we go over what to expect at the week-long experience, the application process and answers to any questions you may have.

Register for the Info Sessions and learn more about the program at scahec.net/hcp.

This event hosted in partnership with MUSC James B. Edwards College of Dental Medicine, MUSC College of Health Professions, MUSC College of Medicine, MUSC College of Nursing and the MUSC Libraries.

Address

173 Ashley Avenue
Charleston, SC
29425

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm

Telephone

+18438767645

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