UF trains dentists in IDD patient care

The University of Florida has announced a major, state-funded expansion of its College of Dentistry. The project combines a new Dental Science Building with a full renovation of existing facilities, marking the largest state investment in a medical science building at a Florida public university. A central focus of the expansion is improving how dental care is delivered and taught for patients with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

The expansion includes construction of a new Dental Science Building alongside a full renovation of current spaces. Within the updated footprint, the plan features a sensory-adapted clinic intended to better serve individuals with IDD. These sensory-adapted spaces are designed to reduce anxiety and improve access to dental care for patients with sensory sensitivities. The approach reflects a practical focus on the clinical environment itself, recognizing that sensory considerations can be a barrier to routine dental care and successful visits.

A key component of the project is the sensory-adapted clinic, specifically designed to support individuals with IDD. The clinic model centers on creating spaces that can accommodate sensory sensitivities and make dental care more accessible. By prioritizing anxiety reduction and a more supportive patient experience, UF’s planned clinic space aligns clinical design with patient-centered care. The intent is to expand access by addressing environmental factors that can affect how patients with sensory sensitivities experience dental settings.

Alongside the facility work, UF is expanding its dental education curriculum to better prepare future dentists to care for individuals with IDD. Training will include communication strategies, adaptive care techniques, and hands-on experience in inclusive clinical environments.

This curriculum expansion connects training directly to care delivery, pairing classroom preparation with practical exposure to inclusive clinical settings. In doing so, UF is linking the physical expansion of the College of Dentistry with a parallel investment in how providers are trained to deliver care to patients with IDD. Construction is expected to continue through 2030, positioning UF as a national leader in inclusive dental education, research, and patient-centered care.

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