Dentistry Residency Columbia - Director's Welcome

​Thank you for considering Prisma Health for your general practice residency training.

I am excited about the opportunities available to you at our institution.

The Department of Dentistry has existed at Prisma Health for more than a quarter of a century and is highly respected throughout the hospital system. The environment in which you will work uniquely blends hospital based care in a private practice setting. You will receive significant experience in managing special patient populations, such as medically compromised individuals, and providing a broad range of services that constitute the basis for thriving, modern general dental practice.

Dentistry is a dynamic profession, and we strive to assure that the nature of our program mirrors its evolution. Our patient base provides ample opportunity for gaining or expanding your experience in disciplines such as implant dentistry, fixed and removable prosthodontics, esthetic dentistry, conscious sedation and more. Rotations to anesthesia and emergency medicine help to improve your skills in medical risk assessment and overall patient management. In addition to the department's clinic setting, you will be able to provide comprehensive dental care in the operating room and work with physicians and other medical personnel throughout the hospital. Your clinical training is supplemented with an array of lectures, seminars and conferences throughout the year. You will have the privilege of working with a variety of dental and medical specialists in both clinical and classroom settings.

Our alumni have been very successful throughout the course of their careers. They are well-respected by their peers and patients, and the knowledge and skills they gained during their residency serves them exceptionally well. As a result of their training, they are able to rely on their own expertise and typically need to refer fewer patients to specialists. They are able to function comfortably in hospital settings and are able to provide dental care in emergency rooms and operating rooms.

Again, I appreciate your interest in our program. If you have any questions or require additional information, please contact me at 803-434-6621 or scott.balzer@prismahealth.org.