Meharry Medical College School Of Dentistry

Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Nashville Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry in Nashville, Tennessee, stands as a cornerstone of American dental education and health equity. Since its founding in 1886, the school has played a pioneering role in increasing access to dental education for African Americans and underrepresented minorities, shaping generations of skilled professionals dedicated to serving underserved populations. Today, Meharry remains a beacon for advancing oral health, providing comprehensive education, clinical services, and community engagement.

This guide offers essential information for visitors, prospective students, and anyone interested in the institution’s rich legacy. Discover practical details on visiting hours, tour scheduling, campus amenities, accessibility, and nearby Nashville historical attractions. Whether your interest is in the school’s remarkable history or in exploring its modern clinical and research facilities, this guide will help you plan a rewarding and educational visit (Meharry School of Dentistry, Wikipedia, TN Tribune).

Historical Overview
Visiting Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
References and Further Reading

Historical Overview

Founding and Early Years (1886–1915)

Established in 1886, Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry was the first dental school in the Southern United States dedicated to African American students. Dr. George Whipple Hubbard, one of the founders, envisioned a school where “Colored people of the South” could receive thorough dental education (Wikipedia). The first dental degrees were awarded in 1887, including one to Robert Fulton Boyd, an early leader in Black medical and dental practice.

Despite the restrictive climate of segregation, Meharry provided a unique and vital opportunity for professional advancement. By 1889, the institution had its own Dental and Pharmaceutical Building, reinforcing its commitment to excellence in education (Wikipedia).

Growth, Integration, and Legacy (1915–1960s)

In 1915, Meharry Medical College gained independence from Central Tennessee College, fueling growth in enrollment and reputation (Tennessee Encyclopedia). The School of Dentistry became a hub for training African American dentists who would serve across the nation, especially in underserved communities. Meharry’s unwavering commitment to inclusion—never adopting segregationist policies—set it apart from its contemporaries (Wikipedia).

By the mid-20th century, Meharry graduates made up a substantial proportion of Black dental and medical professionals in the U.S., a testament to its enduring influence.

Advancements and Modern Impact (1970s–Present)

Today, Meharry’s Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) program combines rigorous biomedical science education with extensive clinical practice (Meharry School of Dentistry). Modern facilities, including advanced clinics and simulation centers, support a high standard of dental education and patient care.

Community engagement remains central: students participate in outreach programs, providing essential dental services to vulnerable populations in Nashville and across the globe (Embrasure Space). The Henry Schein Cares Graduate Programs Residency Clinic, opened in 2014, exemplifies Meharry’s investment in state-of-the-art care for underserved communities.

National Significance

Meharry is the second-largest educator of African American dentists in the United States and a leading producer of minority PhDs in biomedical sciences (Wikipedia). Its alumni have held influential roles in clinical practice, academia, research, and public health, furthering the school’s mission of health equity and leadership (Embrasure Space, TN Tribune).

Visiting Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry

Location and Accessibility

Address:
1005 Dr. D. B. Todd Jr. Blvd, Nashville, TN 37208
The campus is centrally located in North Nashville, easily accessible by car, public transit, and rideshare services. It is approximately 10 miles from Nashville International Airport (Visiting Meharry – Driving Directions). On-site parking is available, and the campus is fully wheelchair accessible with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms (Campus Map).

Visiting Hours and Admission

General Campus Access: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Dental Clinics: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Admission to the campus and the School of Dentistry is free. Most areas are open to visitors during business hours, but clinical and research areas may require advance arrangements.

Guided Tours

Guided tours offer a comprehensive look at Meharry’s history, educational programs, and state-of-the-art facilities.

Scheduling: Tours must be booked in advance.
- Prospective students/families: Tuesdays, Thursdays, and the first and third Fridays at 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, and 2:00 PM
- Community/large groups: Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 3:00 PM
- Alumni: Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Duration: Approximately 90 minutes
Accessibility: Fully accessible; accommodations available upon request
To schedule, contact the Office of Admissions or Community Engagement.

Facilities and Clinical Services

Modern Classrooms and Simulation Labs: Home to the Delta Dental Simulation Center, the only one of its kind in Middle Tennessee, offering immersive procedural training (Inside Dentistry).
Comprehensive Clinics: Undergraduate and postgraduate clinics provide general and specialized dental care, including oral and maxillofacial surgery and general practice residency (School of Dentistry Patient Care).
Affordable Care: Services are open to the public at competitive rates; both insured and uninsured patients are welcome.
Emergency Dental Care: After-hours emergencies are handled at the Metropolitan Nashville General Hospital Emergency Room at Meharry.

Appointments:
Call (615) 327-6669 or email [email protected].

Student Life and Amenities

Student Lounges and Break Areas
Meharry Metz Café: Located in the Cal Turner Family Center, open Monday–Thursday 7:00 AM–7:00 PM, Friday until 5:00 PM
Bookstore and Visitor Center: Textbooks, supplies, and Meharry merchandise
Ross Fitness Center: Located in the Lloyd C. Elam Mental Health Center

Safety and Security

The campus is monitored by security personnel. All visitors must check in at the main entrance and present a government-issued photo ID. Review safety guidelines before your visit.

Practical Visitor Tips

Arrival: Plan to arrive early for parking and security check-in.
Dress Code: Business casual attire is recommended; maintain respectful behavior in clinical and classroom areas.
Photography: Permitted in public areas; obtain permission in clinical zones.
Special Needs: Contact the visitor center in advance for accommodations.
Dining: The Metz Café and other on-campus dining options provide convenient meals.

Nearby Nashville Historical Sites

Enhance your visit by exploring some of Nashville’s notable attractions close to Meharry’s campus:

Fisk University: Historic HBCU with a vibrant campus and rich history.
National Museum of African American Music: Celebrating Black music heritage.
Historic Jefferson Street: Renowned for its African American legacy, music venues, and cuisine.
Tennessee State Museum
Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park
Broadway Entertainment District
Centennial Park (featuring the Parthenon replica)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry?
A: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Clinical facilities open until 4:30 PM.

Q: Is there an admission fee or tickets required?
A: General visits are free; some events or workshops may require advance registration or tickets.

Q: How do I schedule a campus tour?
A: Visit the campus tours page or contact the Office of Admissions at least two weeks in advance.

Q: Is the campus accessible for individuals with disabilities?
A: Yes, all buildings are wheelchair accessible. Notify the visitor center for special accommodations.

Q: Can the public use dental clinic services?
A: Yes, both insured and uninsured patients are welcome; appointments are recommended.

Q: Are there parking facilities?
A: Yes, visitor parking is available on campus. Check the campus map for details.

Conclusion

A visit to Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry is more than an encounter with a premier educational institution; it is an immersion in the history of health equity and service to the underserved. The school’s enduring legacy as the first dental institution in the South for African Americans and its ongoing commitment to educational, clinical, and community excellence make it a must-visit for anyone interested in the intersection of history, healthcare, and social progress.

Plan your trip by confirming current visiting hours and tour availability on the official website, and explore the vibrant Nashville community that surrounds this historic campus. For further updates, follow Meharry’s social media channels and consider downloading the Audiala app for guided tours and real-time information.