Louisiana State University School Of Dentistry
Louisiana State University School of Dentistry: Visitor Guide, Hours, Tours, and Key Information
Date: 03/07/2025
Introduction
The Louisiana State University School of Dentistry (LSUSD) stands as a prominent educational and clinical institution in New Orleans, Louisiana. Established in 1968, LSUSD is the state’s only dental school and has played a pivotal role in shaping oral health professionals in the Gulf South. Situated in the culturally rich Mid-City neighborhood at 1100 Florida Avenue, LSUSD not only advances dental education but also significantly contributes to community health, research, and public outreach (LSUSD History).
This guide is designed for prospective students, health professionals, patients, and visitors seeking detailed information about LSUSD—covering its historical significance, campus facilities, visiting hours, tour opportunities, accessibility, and nearby attractions. Whether you’re considering enrollment, attending a public event, or simply exploring educational landmarks in New Orleans, LSUSD offers a unique blend of history, innovation, and service.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Historical Overview
- Location and Accessibility
- Visiting Hours and Visitor Information
- Admission, Tickets, and Tours
- Facilities and Campus Layout
- Community Service and Outreach
- Continuing Education and Professional Development
- Research and Innovation
- Economic, Social, and Cultural Significance
- Visitor Experience and Travel Tips
- Nearby Attractions
- Safety and Security
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Contact and Further Information
- Summary and Call to Action
- References
Historical Overview
LSUSD was founded in response to Louisiana’s need for a dedicated dental education institution. The school’s inaugural class began in 1968, and since then, it has grown into a comprehensive training and clinical hub. The campus occupies a 22-acre site that was once a World War II Navy housing area, transformed into a modern facility officially dedicated as William Pitcher Plaza in 1972 (LSUSD History).
Today, LSUSD is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association and offers programs including Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), Dental Hygiene, Dental Laboratory Technology, and advanced specialty training. Notably, about 70% of Louisiana’s practicing dentists are LSUSD alumni, underscoring its statewide impact.
The school also demonstrated resilience and adaptability, particularly after Hurricane Katrina, when it restored and modernized its clinical and educational services.
Location and Accessibility
- Address: 1100 Florida Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70119
- Neighborhood: Mid-City, adjacent to City Park and Bayou St. John (LSUHSC Dental Campus Map)
Transportation & Parking
- By Car: Ample visitor parking is available adjacent to the main building; additional parking is clearly marked on the campus map.
- Public Transportation: Several city bus routes stop near the campus; taxis and rideshare services are widely available.
- Accessibility: The campus is fully ADA-compliant, with wheelchair ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, and designated parking.
Visiting Hours and Visitor Information
- General Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
(Hours may vary during holidays and semester breaks—contact ahead to confirm.) - Faculty Dental Practice Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM (Faculty Dental Practice)
- Check-In: Visitors must check in at the reception desk and wear visitor badges.
- Photography: Allowed in public spaces; restricted in clinical areas to protect patient privacy.
Admission, Tickets, and Tours
- Admission Fee: There is no general admission fee or ticket required to visit the campus.
- Tours: Public tours are not daily but can be scheduled for prospective students, dental professionals, or community groups. Contact the admissions office in advance (LSUSD DDS Admissions).
- Special Events: LSUSD hosts open houses, alumni days, continuing education courses, and community outreach events (e.g., dental screenings, charity runs).
- Historic Archives: The dental school’s archives and photograph collections are open to the public by appointment (LSU School of Dentistry Historic Photographs).
Facilities and Campus Layout
- Main Academic Building: Contains lecture halls, seminar rooms, faculty offices, and administrative services.
- Clinical Facilities: General and specialty dental clinics, including oral and maxillofacial surgery, periodontics, orthodontics, prosthodontics, and pediatric dentistry (JKOMSF).
- Simulation and Preclinical Labs: Equipped with high-fidelity dental simulators and CAD/CAM technology.
- Research Laboratories: Focused on oral biology, biomaterials, and clinical research.
- Student and Faculty Lounges: Areas for relaxation and collaboration.
- Safety Features: Emergency call stations and AEDs are located throughout campus (LSUHSC Dental Campus Map).
Community Service and Outreach
LSUSD is deeply committed to serving the community through its clinics, which provide affordable care to nearly 10,000 active patients annually. Outreach includes free dental screenings, education for underserved populations, and student-led volunteer initiatives in partnership with local organizations (LSUA and LSU Health New Orleans School of Dentistry).
Continuing Education and Professional Development
LSUSD offers nationally recognized continuing education courses, alumni events, and specialized review programs—such as the LSU Comprehensive Review Course in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, attended by professionals nationwide (JKOMSF).
Research and Innovation
State-of-the-art research facilities and a comprehensive dental library support LSUSD’s mission of advancing dental science. The school encourages collaboration across specialties and supports innovation in clinical practice and patient care.
Economic, Social, and Cultural Significance
By training the majority of Louisiana’s dentists and dental hygienists, LSUSD is a cornerstone of the state’s oral health infrastructure. Its integration with the local community, commitment to diversity (including international programs), and active role in public health initiatives make it a vital contributor to the region’s economic and social fabric (LSUSD Overview).
Visitor Experience and Travel Tips
- Best Times: The campus is busiest during the academic year (August–May). For a quieter experience, visit during breaks.
- Dress Code: Business casual is suggested, especially for interviews or clinical visits.
- Dining: On-campus vending is available; nearby restaurants in Mid-City offer a variety of options.
- Photography: Permitted in public areas; request permission for archive or academic photography.
- Map & Virtual Tour: Explore the LSUSD campus map and virtual tours online.
Nearby Attractions
Enhance your visit by exploring nearby cultural landmarks:
- City Park: One of the largest urban parks in the U.S., featuring the New Orleans Museum of Art and Besthoff Sculpture Garden.
- Bayou St. John: Historic neighborhood with scenic walking trails and local dining.
- French Quarter and Downtown: Accessible by car or public transit for broader sightseeing.
Safety and Security
The LSUSD campus prioritizes safety, with on-site security personnel, controlled building access, and emergency procedures displayed throughout. Emergency call stations and AEDs are readily available (LSUHSC Campus Information).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are LSUSD’s visiting hours?
A: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Clinic and special event hours may vary.
Q: Do I need a ticket or appointment to visit?
A: No tickets are needed for general campus visits. Tours, clinic appointments, or archive visits must be scheduled in advance.
Q: Is the campus accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, LSUSD is fully ADA-compliant.
Q: How can I schedule a tour?
A: Contact the admissions office or visit the LSUSD DDS Admissions page.
Q: Where can I find parking?
A: Visitor parking is located adjacent to the main building. See the campus map for details.
Q: Are there public dental services?
A: Yes, the clinics offer affordable dental care by appointment (Faculty Dental Practice).
Contact and Further Information
- Reception: 504-941-8124
- Faculty Dental Practice: 504-619-8721 (Faculty Dental Practice)
- Admissions: [email protected] (LSUSD DDS Admissions)
- Campus Map and Visitor Info: LSUHSC Dental Campus Map, LSUHSC Campus Information
Summary and Call to Action
LSUSD is more than an academic institution—it’s a driving force in Louisiana’s dental education, public health, and community engagement. With accessible hours, guided tours, and public events, visitors can immerse themselves in a dynamic environment that bridges tradition and innovation. Its proximity to major cultural sites makes LSUSD an ideal addition to any New Orleans itinerary.
To plan your visit, schedule tours, or stay updated on events, refer to the official LSUSD website. Follow LSUSD on social media or download the Audiala app for real-time updates and additional resources on dental education and New Orleans history.
