Other Information

Special Programs and Services

Simulation Laboratories

Two state-of-the-art simulation laboratories allow students and practicing dentists to learn the latest in dental procedures under close-to-actual clinic situations. One is a simulation laboratory with 84 stations; the other is a benchtop laboratory with 100 stations. They help students to transition easily from pre-clinical studies to the actual treatment of patients. They also allow students experiencing problems in the clinic to go back to simulation and correct their deficiencies. Each station is complete with hand pieces, water sprays, operator and assistant instruments, lights, mannequin heads and articulators that closely match the clinical situation. In addition, the laboratory contains TV monitors and other equipment to aid in the educational process.

Externship Program

Beginning in the summer between the third and fourth years of the Program in Dentistry, students have the opportunity to expand dental knowledge and/or clinical skills in hospitals and dental schools around the country. It allows them to perfect their dental techniques. The externship program is a tremendous learning experience that provides lasting benefits for all participants.

Student Government

Members of the Executive Council of the Student Government Association consists of one elected representative from each class, class presidents, the elected president, vice president and secretary-treasurer of the student body, and the dental-school yearbook editor. Elections are held annually in April. Class officers for each class are also elected in the spring. First-year class elections are held in October with temporary officers serving until that time.

The association provides a forum for student debates and opinions, and provides a method of dialogue between faculty and student body. The association has a bipartisan function in serving also as the local chapter of the American Student Dental Association and therefore upholds and supports the objectives of the American Student Dental Association.

Honorary and Professional Groups

Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) Student Fellow Track Program/Affiliate of the Louisiana Academy of General Dentistry-The Fellow Track program is a student-driven organization dedicated to life-long learning.  AGD student members may earn up to 50 hours of continuing education credits toward their AGD Fellowship awarded after graduation.  The Fellow Track program sponsors continuing education classes and lunch and learns on a variety of subjects of interest to dental professionals.

The American Dental Association and The American Student Dental Association - The American Student Dental Association is a national student-run organization, which protects and advances the rights, interests, and welfare of students pursuing careers in dentistry. It represents students with a unified voice and provides information, education, advocacy, and services. The association introduces students to lifelong involvement in organized dentistry and promotes change for the betterment of the profession. Students of the school hold membership in these organizations. Each student receives official publications from these associations and is welcome to attend all scientific sessions sponsored by them. Other professional benefits are also available to the student through membership in the ADA and the ASDA.

Student National Dental Association (SNDA) - is the student organization of the National Dental Association.  SNDA was established in 1970 to promote, aid, and support the academic, moral, ethical and social environment of minority students. It strives to establish opportunities for its members to develop stronger alliances amongst one another and develop a sense of community in the dental schools. The organization provides dental education, access to care information, and community service through various outreach efforts, with emphasis on the minorities and the undeserved.  Officers are elected and act as delegates to the SNDA’s House of Delegates.

American Dental Education Association (ADEA) - devoted to the advancement of dental education, research and service. Members receive the Journal of Dental Education and Dental Student News. Representatives from the dental school are selected to serve on the Council of Students of the American Dental Education Association as the national voice and advocate for all students in the dental education community.

The American Dental Hygienists’ Association and the Student American Dental Hygienists’ Association - Students of the school hold membership in these organizations. Each student receives official publications from these associations and is welcome to attend all scientific sessions sponsored by them. Other professional benefits are also available to the student with membership in the ADHA and the SADHA.

Student Government Association-the formal organization of the student body with its own constitution and by-laws. SGA directs student activities and facilitates communication between faculty and the student body.

Delta Sigma Delta - This professional dental fraternity aims to promote the high ideals and standards of the profession, advance the professional knowledge and welfare of their members, and provide a medium through which their members, with a common interest, can develop lasting friendships.

Omicron Kappa Upsilon - A national dental honor society founded for the purpose of encouraging scholarship and advancing the ethical standards of the dental profession annually elects members from the fourth-year dental class. Twelve percent of the graduating class for each year may achieve the honor of such membership.

C. Edmund Kells Honor Society - This honor society, named after a pioneer in dentistry, is a student group established in 1971 to honor dental students who have distinguished themselves academically and clinically. Their peers in the society select students based on scholarship and professionalism. One faculty member is also selected each year to honorary membership.

Institutional Affiliations

The hospitals and other health-related institutions listed below are affiliated with the School of Dentistry for the training of students, postgraduates, and residents:

• Children’s Hospital, New Orleans
• University Medical Center-New Orleans
• Southern Regional Research Medical Center (Chabert)
• Pinecrest Services and Supports Center, Pineville
• Veteran’s Affairs Hospital, New Orleans
• Veteran’s Affairs Hospital, Baton Rouge
• Our Lady of the Lake Medical Center
• Our Lady of Lourdes Regional Medical Center
• Baton Rouge General Hospital
• Carolina Center for Oral and Facial Surgery

Chemical Dependency Policy

Alcohol abuse and the illegal use or abuse of other drugs are associated with health, safety and social problems. Students may obtain assistance for alcohol and/or drug problems voluntarily through the LSUHSC Campus Assistance Program (CAP) or through an outside provider. School of Dentistry administration may formally refer a student to CAP for a substance abuse evaluation. Any student who refuses formal referral for evaluation and/or treatment for chemical dependency or who is unsuccessful in a treatment program for chemical dependency is subject to suspension from the School of Dentistry by the dean. If a student returns to school after obtaining treatment for chemical dependency, the student will be given the opportunity to sign a Continuation of Enrollment Agreement with the School of Dentistry, which outlines continued compliance with chemical dependency treatment recommendations. Failure to comply with the terms of this agreement may result in termination from the School of Dentistry.