Preparing for Real-World dentistry: The UAB GPR Program
The typical work habitat for a general dentist is designed for calm. Soft music and soothing artwork create a relaxing atmosphere for patients. However, this isn’t always the reality for dentists completing the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Dentistry’s General Practice Residency (GPR) program.
While many GPR graduates will eventually practice in peaceful settings, their year-long postdoctoral program often involves providing dental care at UAB Hospital, where the environment can be far from tranquil.
“We learn about trauma cases in dental school, but experiencing them firsthand is different,” says Grace Park, D.M.D., a recent UAB School of Dentistry graduate and current GPR resident. “A patient might arrive with a severe injury, and it’s initially overwhelming. You need a calm, focused mindset to assess and begin treatment – it’s challenging.”
Park emphasizes the value of this experience: “Being exposed to trauma and learning to manage it will make us more capable dentists.”
this is a key reason why graduates choose to postpone private practice for a year to participate in the UAB GPR program, which has been available since 1977. It offers crucial experience beyond the standard dental curriculum.
“I wanted additional training before starting my career,” explains Andrew Reynolds, D.M.D., a resident from the Medical University of South Carolina’s College of Dental Medicine. “Here,I’ve encountered situations rarely seen in dental school. It’s been an intensive learning experience in managing medically complex cases – cases I know I’ll face in my future practice.”
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