Student Life
At the UB School of Dental Medicine, your experiences outside the classroom and clinic are an important part of your education. The activities you participate in, the colleagues you connect with, and the choices you make all help shape your dental school journey.
Student Organizations
UB Dental provides a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved. Student organizations have an important impact in providing efficient learning environments for students, and can serve as an intermediate for academics, leadership involvement, and building friendships with peers.
ASDA Buffalo - American Student Dental Association
- The ASDA Buffalo Chapter brings together all dental student organizations and invites members to participate, connect, and make an impact by sharing their talents within our school community.
ASDA Sustainability
- ASDA Sustainability’s mission is to unite students and faculty in learning how to make meaningful, sustainable impacts on our campus and our planet. As future dental professionals, we aim to foster an environmentally conscious community dedicated to creating a better tomorrow.
AADMD - American Academy of Developmental Medicine and Dentistry
- The American Academy of Developmental Medicine & Dentistry (AADMD) is a non-profit, membership organization of interdisciplinary health professionals — including primary care physicians, medical specialists, dentists, nurses and other clinicians — committed to improving the quality of healthcare for people with intellectual / developmental disabilities (IDD).
- The mission of the Buffalo AADMD chapter is to enhance the quality of and access to oral health care for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We are dedicated to hosting events and outreach programs that promote awareness, inclusion, and compassionate care, while offering students and professionals meaningful opportunities to serve and learn from these experiences.
AAPHD - American Association of Public Health Dentistry
- Founded in 1937, the American Association of Public Health Dentistry (AAPHD) provides a focus for meeting the challenge to improve oral health. AAPHD membership is open to all individuals concerned with improving the oral health of the public.
- AAPHD accepts the challenge to improve total health for all citizens through the development and support of effective programs of oral health promotion and disease prevention.
- The Buffalo AAPHD chapter aims to improve oral health by developing and supporting effective programs of oral health promotion and disease prevention.
AAWD - American Association for Women Dentists
- The American Association of Women Dentists (AAWD) strives to be the leading resource for advancing, connecting and enriching the lives of women dentists. We serve our members by offering a variety of programs and services that benefit the special needs of the busy woman dentist.
- The Buffalo chapter's goal is to advance, connect, and enrich the diverse lives of women dentists. We also hope our message reaches the women and children within our local community while providing the necessary support they deserve.
ADEA - American Dental Education Association
- As The Voice of Oral Health Education, the American Dental Education Association (ADEA) is the sole national organization representing 65,000+ oral health faculty, staff, administrators, student, residents, and fellows. Our members include all 87 U.S. and Canadian dental schools, more than 800 allied and advanced dental education programs, more than 50 corporations and approximately 15,000 individuals.
- The Buffalo chapter's mission is to lead individuals dental education communication so they can address contemporary issues influencing education, research, and the delivery of oral healthcare for the overall health and safety of the public.
ADSO - Asian Dental Students Organization
- The purpose of the Asian Dental Student Organization (ADSO) is to establish and promote the educational, community, and professional aspirations of East and South Asian dental students at the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine.
- ADSO seeks to share the diverse experiences and cultures of its members by celebrating holidays and hosting cultural events. In addition, the organization aims to support International Dental Program (IDP) students in their transition to UBSDM, fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for all.
AGD - Academy of General Dentistry
- Founded in 1952, the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) is the only professional association that exclusively represents the needs and interests of general dentists. AGD provides its more than 40,000 members with the resources, support and inspiration they need to deliver the best dental care and oral health education to the public.
- AGD’s mission is to “advance general dentistry and oral health through quality continuing education and advocacy.” Through this mission, AGD member dentists are able to build their careers, grow their businesses and protect their profession.
- The Buffalo AGD chapter aims to help educate and guide dental students who seek to pursue careers in general dentistry.
Alpha Omega
- Founded in 1907, the Alpha Omega International Dental Society (AO) is the oldest international dental organization, established by Jewish dental students to combat discrimination in dental schools.
- The Alpha Omega Buffalo Chapter is dedicated to fostering a sense of camaraderie and support among dental students while building meaningful connections with UB Dental alumni and distinguished professionals in the field.
BOCA - Buffalo Outreach and Community Assistance
- Buffalo Outreach and Community Assistance (BOCA) is a dental outreach organization made up of students and faculty from the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine.
- BOCA’s mission is to promote oral health education and provide free dental care to individuals and communities with limited access to care in Buffalo, across the United States, and abroad.
- Through local and international service trips, BOCA unites students and professionals in their commitment to public health and community service.
- In addition to dental outreach, students volunteer in non-dental initiatives, including programs that support new Americans, the elderly, and local community kitchens.
Chess Club
- The UB Dental Chess Club is an educational and recreational organization that promotes mental wellness, critical thinking, and community through the world’s most renowned board game.
- The club welcomes players of all skill levels—from beginners learning the fundamentals to advanced players seeking friendly competition. Through regular meetups, casual games, and tournaments, members have the opportunity to unwind from the demands of dental school while sharpening their problem-solving and strategic thinking skills.
- The Chess Club aims to create a supportive and engaging environment that fosters connection, stress relief, and intellectual growth among UB Dental students.
CMDA - Christian Medical & Dental Associations
- The UB Chapter of CMDA seeks to encourage, equip, and connect healthcare students and professionals interested in improving patient care through the integration of faith and health.
DSRG - Dental Student Research Group
- The Dental Student Research Group is promotes research in the dental school. The club presents current and prospective students with research opportunities and provides guidance on how to get involved.
- Students with any level of interest in research are welcome to join and attend hosted events.
- We invite professors and residents to discuss their career path, research, scholarship, and conference opportunities and hold seminars for students to share their research. In addition we host workshops that provide tips on poster presentations to help students who are presenting at the annual dental research day.
- At DSRG, we firmly believe that research is crucial in fostering a well rounded dental school education.
DSD - Delta Sigma Delta
- Delta Sigma Delta is an organization of dentists and dental students brought together with the common goal of promoting excellence in the dental profession. We currently have 33 dental school chapters, and 42 alumni chapters.
- At the school level, members have a great study support group, social events, education opportunities and do community service projects. Fellowship continues at the alumni level in graduate chapters all around the country.
Esthetics Club
- The Dental Esthetics Club at the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine is dedicated to advancing students’ knowledge and skills in cosmetic and restorative dentistry.
- Through hands-on workshops, guest lectures, and case discussions, members explore topics such as smile design, veneers, whitening techniques, and digital esthetics.
- The club provides opportunities to learn from experienced clinicians and industry professionals while fostering an appreciation for the artistry and precision involved in creating beautiful, functional smiles.
GSSA - Global Surgery Student Alliance
- The Global Surgery Student Alliance (GSSA) aims to improve health and health equity for all who are affected by surgical conditions or have a need for surgical care, with a particular focus on underserved populations in countries of all income levels, as well as populations in crisis, such as those experiencing conflict, displacement, and disaster.
HDA - Hispanic Dental Association
- Founded in 1990, the history of the Hispanic Dental Association (HDA) is one of inclusive nature driven by our mission. Incorporated in Texas with a national scope, the HDA’s founding members shared a common commitment to improve the oral health of the Hispanic community.
- The Buffalo HDA chapter promotes Hispanic cultural awareness and community service. Through outreach initiatives such as clothing drives and health fairs, HDA strives to improve oral health within the Hispanic community and other underserved populations.
- The organization welcomes students of all backgrounds who share a passion for service, cultural inclusion, and making a positive impact on the community.
OMFS Interest Group - Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Interest Group
- The Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (OMFS) Club helps students build a strong foundation in oral and maxillofacial surgery. Through educational events, clinical workshops, and guest lectures, members have the opportunity to expand their knowledge, enhance their surgical skills, and gain valuable exposure to the diverse scope of the specialty.
Orthodontic Interest Group
- The Orthodontic Interest Program introduces dental students to the art and discipline of orthodontics, fostering a collaborative learning environment where students can help and learn from one another.
- The program aims to help students identify and develop their interest in orthodontics, providing foundational knowledge that can be applied in general practice.
- Additionally, the organization seeks to engage the community through educational initiatives and fundraising efforts that promote awareness and access to orthodontic care.
Pediatric Club
- The Pediatric Dental Club (UB Peds Club) is dedicated to promoting oral health education for children and their families. Its mission is to teach parents and children about the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene and developing healthy dental habits early in life.
- Members of the club participate in a variety of community outreach events at WIC centers, community centers, and local elementary schools, where they provide education, demonstrations, and resources to support lifelong oral health.
Practice Management Club
- The Practice Management Club (PMC) prepares future dental professionals for the business and interpersonal aspects of dentistry. The club introduces essential practice management techniques to help students gain awareness and confidence in owning and operating their own dental practice.
- In addition, PMC focuses on patient management and communication strategies to strengthen patient relationships and enhance the overall care experience.
- The organization also fosters valuable connections between UBSDM students and local practice owners, providing real-world insights into successful practice operations.
Prosthodontics Society
- The Prosthodontic Society at UBSDM aims to cultivate student interest and passion for the field of prosthodontics by fostering a collaborative and engaging learning environment.
- Through collective learning experiences, the club encourages participation in discussions, hands-on activities, and educational events that deepen understanding of restorative and prosthetic dentistry while inspiring future excellence in patient care and innovation.
- The Student National Dental Association (SNDA) has had a longstanding goal for over 50 years to promote, aid and support the academic and social environment of minority students.
- SNDA strives to establish opportunities for its members to develop stronger alliances amongst one another while developing a sense of community, aiding in the advancement of minority students within the field of dentistry.
- The SNDA Buffalo Chapter seeks to educate members about the social, moral, and ethical responsibilities of the dental profession while fostering a commitment to compassionate and equitable care.
- We aim to provide dental care and education with a focus on addressing access to care challenges and reducing health disparities within the community. Additionally, the organization serves as a forum for dental students to connect, share experiences, and support one another, while also offering mentorship opportunities to pre-dental students pursuing careers in dentistry.
Art Club
- The Art Club at UBSDM aims to provide students with a creative outlet and a break from the demands of dental school through artistic expression.
- The club organizes art-focused events that promote relaxation, mindfulness, and community among students while also enhancing the beauty of the campus environment.
Dental Student Technology and Innovations Club
- The Dental Science and Technology Innovation (DSTI) Club strives to create opportunities for students and faculty at UBSDM to explore and learn about emerging technologies and innovations in the dental field.
- Through workshops, guest lectures, and hands-on demonstrations, the club promotes awareness and understanding of advancements that are shaping the future of dentistry, fostering a community of forward-thinking professionals committed to innovation and continuous learning.
Smile Pride
- Smile Pride's goal is to educate the UBSDM community on providing competent and compassionate dental care to LGBTQ+ patients.
- The organization promotes outreach activities aimed at increasing dental health equity for LGBTQ+ individuals while fostering an inclusive and supportive environment within the dental school.
- Through education, advocacy, and community engagement, Smile Pride encourages awareness, understanding, and respectful care for all patients.
Student Professionalism and Ethics Association
- The Student Professionalism and Ethics Association in Dentistry is a national, student-driven association that was established to promote and support students' lifelong commitments to ethical behavior, in order to benefit the patients they serve and to further the dental profession.
UB myFace
- UB myFace serves as the University at Buffalo branch of myFace, a leading non-profit organization dedicated to supporting individuals with craniofacial differences.
- The club focuses on improving the lives of children and adults with facial conditions, such as cleft lip and palate, by promoting access to holistic, comprehensive care. UB myFace educates dental students on providing patient-centered treatment, offering resources, and delivering support that contribute to better outcomes and enhanced quality of life for those affected by craniofacial abnormalities.
Muslim Dental Student Association
- The Muslim Dental Student Association (MDSA) is dedicated to supporting the educational, professional, and community goals of Muslim dental students.
- The organization seeks to define and promote the responsibilities, rights, and ethical commitments of its members as healthcare providers while fostering engagement within the broader community.
- MDSA also contributes to the professional, educational, recreational, and social offerings of the school, providing a platform to express and uphold Islamic values and practices in a meaningful and inclusive way.
Sports Club
- The Student Sports Club provides students with opportunities to stay active, build camaraderie, and maintain a healthy balance between the demands of dental school and personal well-being.
- Through organized sports, fitness activities, and recreational events, the club encourages teamwork, leadership, and stress relief while fostering a sense of community among students.
- Participation in the club promotes both physical health and social engagement, creating a supportive environment for students to connect outside the classroom.
Running Club
- The Running Club is dedicated to promoting health and fitness among dental students by offering a safe and supportive running and walking community.
- The club emphasizes stress relief, mental health, and overall wellness through an active lifestyle, helping members maintain balance amid the demands of dental school.
- Additionally, it provides opportunities for community building and networking, allowing students to connect with peers while pursuing shared goals in fitness and well-being.
Endodontics Club
- The UB Endodontics Club aims to inform and inspire both future endodontists and general dentists to consider endodontics as a career path or integrate it as a key component of their practice.
- The club’s goal is to provide students with opportunities to explore the field, deepen their knowledge, and engage with educational experiences that highlight the importance and impact of endodontic care.
Phone: 716-829-6925
Fax: 716-829-2731
Email: sdmadmit@buffalo.edu
Hours:
8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., M-F
DDS Admissions
School of Dental Medicine
315 Squire Hall
University at Buffalo
Buffalo, NY 14214