How do I become a patient at the Dental Branch?
All prospective patients must be assessed for their current dental needs.  Since we are a teaching institution, your dental care needs must match the needs of our teaching programs in order for you to be accepted as a patients.  Assessments are done by appointment only.  Assessment appointments can be made by calling our main number, 713.500.4000.  Additional information can be found on our web site at http://www.db.uth.tmc.edu/clinic-pat/Patient Information/becoming1.htm.

Will the Dental Branch treat me for a dental emergency?
We will make every attempt to resolve your dental emergency in our Emergency/Urgent Care Clinic. This clinic operates during the fall and spring semesters to provide clinical training for our D.D.S. and dental hygiene clinics. If you are not an active patient of record and are in need of emergency care, call 713.500.4446 for an appointment.  A limited number of "walk-ins" are accepted each day as well.  More information about our emergency care services is available on our web site at
http://www.db.uth.tmc.edu//clinic-pat/Patient Information/emergency.htm.

Does the Dental Branch provide care for patients requiring treatment by a dental specialist?
Yes, we have programs that train dentists for specialization in dental public health, endodontics (root canal therapy), oral and maxillofacial surgery (wisdom teeth, facial surgery), orthodontics (teeth straightening, braces), pediatric dentistry, periodontics (gum disease), and prosthodontics (replacement of missing teeth).  Depending on your dental care needs, you may be referred to one of the postgraduate specialty clinics.

Does the Dental Branch provide care for patients with severe medical, physical, or mental problems?
The University Dental Center (http://www.db.uth.tmc.edu/clinic-pat/Patient Information/gpr.htm) and the Special Patient Clinic provide treatment for these patients.  Patients are referred to these clinics by the Dental Branch faculty, as well as physicians and dentists in the community.

What are your fees for treatment?
Fees vary depending on which teaching program provides treatment.  Our fees cover only part of the cost of treatment and are therefore generally lower than fees in the private practice sector.

Where do I park to come to the Dental Branch?
Parking is available for $9 a day in Garage 6 at the intersection of M.D. Anderson Blvd. (formerly John Freeman Ave.) and Moursund St. and in Garage 10 at the intersection of M.D. Anderson Blvd. and Holcombe Blvd.  Less expensive parking with shuttle buses is available for $4 a day a the Economy (Brown) Lot on South Braeswood Blvd.  If using the Economy Lot, it is advisable to arrive 20-30 minutes prior to your appointment time.