Penn Dental Medicine Mission

The mission statement of the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine (Penn Dental Medicine) articulates its vision of fostering the pioneering spirit of the institution and carrying on its tradition of excellence into the future:

Penn Dental Medicine will advance oral health throughout the world by fostering leaders in research, education, and dental care.  The School will provide an atmosphere in which dentistry is continuously improved through innovation, research, and access to care.

Penn Dental Medicine has a significant global influence and will work to further expand this characteristic. Penn Dental Medicine excels in discovering new knowledge in fundamental biology and dental medicine and disseminates this knowledge through discovery-oriented methodologies enhanced by the latest technologies. Penn Dental Medicine excels in instruction, research, and patient care in dental medicine and inspires, demands, and thrives on the need to continuously improve the quality of programs, produce future leaders, and be the best in all of its pursuits.

Penn Dental Medicine's research and teaching promotes lifelong learning relevant to a dynamic society and a rapidly expanding, multidisciplinary body of knowledge. Penn Dental Medicine is committed to satisfying the needs of all of its constituents both within the institution and in related communities.

Penn Dental Medicine will strengthen and appreciate the diversity of its constituents and supports free expression, reasoned discourse, and diversity in ideas. Penn Dental Medicine fosters the growth of humane values and develops and supports its affiliation with alumni and friends.