Kathy Michel, who works at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, decided to begin Invisalign treatment at the University of Colorado School of Dentistry (CU SDM) in 2024 after comparing prices.
One of her front teeth tilts slightly inward, affecting her smile. Private clinics quoted her nearly $4,000 for Invisalign, while the CU Orthodontics Clinic offered limited treatment for about $400 per year.
“From a cost perspective, the choice was obvious,” Michelle says.
Convenience was another factor. Because she works on campus, Michelle can walk directly from her office to the dental clinic, saving time and stress.
“It also allows me to gain a deeper understanding of the patient experience,” she adds. “Experiencing clinical care firsthand helps me better support the teaching and research mission of the University of Colorado.”
A Wide Range of Clinics and Services
The CU School of Dentistry offers eight specialty clinics, offering care at prices up to 50% lower than in private practice. Patients receive treatment from students under the close supervision of faculty.
Team Care Clinic: Provides affordable, comprehensive care by students and faculty.
Urgent Care Clinic: Provides emergency services for issues such as tooth loss, infection, or injury.
General Practice Residency Clinic: Provides advanced care, including cosmetic dentistry, implants, and root canal therapy.
Periodontist Clinic: Provides specialized treatment for gum and bone conditions.
Veterans Program: Supported by the Colorado Military and the Department of Veterans Affairs, ensures veterans have access to care.
Dr. Michaela Gibbs, Senior Associate Dean for Clinical Affairs, says the college not only provides affordable care but also introduces patients to innovative treatments that aren’t yet widely available.
For example, digital dentistry now enables University of Colorado clinicians to design and fabricate crowns and bridges without the need for messy molds. The college is also one of a few institutions testing inkjet printing technology for dentures, which can produce faster, stronger, and more reliable dentures, with the convenience of digital backups.
A Win-Win for Students and Patients
Fourth-year dental student Sydney Miller says the clinic provides a unique environment where patients and students can develop long-term relationships.
“Many of my patients have been working with me for over a year,” Miller explains. “This ongoing collaboration builds trust and helps me develop my clinical skills and confidence.”
The experience is equally comforting for patients. Not only do they receive compassionate, professional care, but they also contribute to the training of future dentists.
“Many of my patients say they appreciate supporting students while receiving quality treatment,” says Miller, who plans to continue her residency training in the U.S. Army after graduation.
Michelle echoes this sentiment and expresses her gratitude for the University of Colorado (CU)’s supportive, patient-centered approach.
“Whether you need a routine checkup or advanced treatment, CU Dental Clinic provides a warm and professional environment where your health and comfort are paramount,” she says.