Pediatric Dentistry

The Department of Pediatric Dentistry at UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry educates dental students and residents to provide comprehensive preventive and therapeutic oral health care for infants, children, adolescents, including those with special health needs. Instruction encompasses childhood growth and development, psychology, disease etiology, and behavior guidance.

The department offers pediatric specialty treatment that includes comprehensive prevention and treatment of dental disease, interceptive orthodontics, and both basic and advanced behavior management techniques. Treatment modalities include the use of nitrous oxide, minimal to moderate conscious sedation, intravenous deep sedation in a clinical setting, and general anesthesia in a hospital environment.

The department’s two-year Advanced Education Program in Pediatric Dentistry leads to a Master of Science in Dentistry degree. A one-year, noncredit Preceptorship Program is also available for additional clinical experience and professional development.

Give to Department of Pediatric Dentistry

Our Vision

Improving oral health and overall health of our regional, national, and global communities through the pursuit of excellence in all our activities (teaching, research, and service).

Our Mission

At the Department of Pediatric Dentistry, our mission is to improve the oral health—and by extension, the overall health—of individuals and communities at the regional, national, and global levels. We pursue this goal through a steadfast commitment to excellence in all facets of our work: teaching, research, and service.

Through innovative education, future dental professionals are prepared to deliver compassionate, evidence-based care to diverse pediatric populations.
Through cutting-edge research, the department advances scientific understanding of pediatric oral health and informs clinical practice and public health policy worldwide.
Through community engagement and service, faculty, residents, and students address health disparities and promote preventive care in underserved populations.

By integrating education, research, and service, the department continues to be a leader in pediatric dentistry—shaping healthier futures for children and families.