Academic Support

Academic Counseling

  • Academic counseling is managed through the SDM Office of Academic Affairs. 
  • The Office is responsible for coordinating tutoring services in the basic sciences and preclinical labs. 
  • Students can contact their course director to request tutoring services for didactic and preclinical courses. 
  • Course directors may also request tutoring for dental students having difficulties in their didactic or preclinical courses.
dental students standing and kneeling in our waiting area wearing blue scrubs.
group of dental students in pink scurbs huddled together in classroom.

Tutoring Services

  • The Director of Academic Services selects predoctoral and postgraduate students to serve as tutors. 
  • These tutors are chosen for their strong grasp of the subject matter and, in addition to helping with didactic and preclinical courses, serve as a valuable resource for students navigating the dental school curriculum. 
  • All tutoring services are provided at no cost through the Office of Student Affairs.
  • Upperclass students are also available to support first- and second-year students. Whether through free tutoring, study guidance, or simply sharing tips for managing coursework, these senior mentors help new students build confidence and succeed in the demands of dental school.

Peer Support

  • Our DDS program brings together a cohort of about 95 students who share the same courses and schedule for their first three years. 
  • Even though gaining admission is competitive, UB prides itself on maintaining a welcoming, collaborative community. 
  • Studying side-by-side, talking through clinic cases, and supporting one another both academically and personally — that’s how our students thrive.
dental students in scrubs sitting on the lawn eating ice cream.
two dental students in clinic standing next to one another on the clinic floor.

Big Brother / Big Sister Program

  • Along with the support provided by fellow classmates, we offer a Big Brother/Big Sister program to help first-year students transition smoothly into dental school.
  • Second-year students volunteer as mentors, offering guidance, insight, and encouragement throughout the first year. 
  • This popular program has fostered a welcoming community and led to many lasting friendships over the years.

Faculty Support and Guidance

  • Our dedicated faculty play an essential role in student success throughout the dental curriculum. 
  • Faculty members are highly accessible and committed to providing personalized guidance, whether through office hours, small-group instruction, or hands-on coaching in the preclinical and clinical settings. 
  • Students benefit from direct mentorship, meaningful feedback, and a collaborative learning environment where questions are encouraged, and growth is supported. 
  • This strong foundation of faculty engagement empowers students to build confidence, master clinical skills, and thrive as future dental professionals.
faculty member with one student doing a dental scan on another student in the clinic.
students holding up signs during their first day of school in front of academic buildings.

Accessibility Resources

  • The University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine is committed to ensuring that all students have an equal opportunity to succeed. The university’s Accessibility Resources Office provides comprehensive support for students with documented disabilities, including academic accommodations, assistive technologies, testing support, and guidance for navigating the learning environment.
  • Staff work closely with students, faculty, and campus partners to create inclusive experiences that remove barriers and promote independence. Whether a student needs short-term assistance or long-term planning, the office serves as a dedicated resource throughout their academic journey.
UB Office of Accessibility Resources