Advanced Education
Program in Periodontics

The Periodontics Program begins July 1 of each year and is a thirty-six month program. Upon completion of the program, the student will be awarded a certificate in periodontics and will be eligible to take the American Board of Periodontology examination. The program is multifaceted and uses facilities and faculty to provide (1) a strong foundation in the basic sciences, including surgical anatomy, cell biology, biochemistry, immunology, and others, (2) clinical science courses that include occlusion, oral medicine, oral pathology, and minor tooth movement, and multidisciplinary courses, such as periodontics-prosthetics, periodontics-endodontics, dental implantology, etc., (3) an extensive review of the periodontal literature to provide the basis for understanding current philosophies of therapy and to establish a biologic basis for formulating comprehensive treatment plans, (4) exposure to a wide range of periodontal problems requiring a variety of therapeutic procedures. Students are encouraged to work with several different full- and part-time faculty to gain experience in all periodontal techniques available , (5) research opportunities in either basic science or clinical areas to enable the student to accomplish a meaningful original research project, (6) exposure to IV sedation/hospital dentistry via rotation through a local hospital  (7) teaching experience in both the classroom and clinic to communicate those principles and skills acquired during training to their peers. In addition, faculty input into these various areas is supplemented by several guest lecturers during the year.

On average, three applicants are accepted annually. Candidates should possess competitive academic credentials, and should have demonstrated a definite interest in periodontics. Although it is strongly encouraged that applicants have passed parts I and II of the national board examination by the time of matriculation, exceptions can be granted for highly qualified international applicants.  Additional experience beyond dental school (internship or residency, military service, private practice, graduate school, etc.), strengthens the applicant's credentials. In addition to the certificate, a Master’s Degree in Oral Biology is available. The Graduate Record Examination, which can be taken after arrival, is required if a Master's degree is to be pursued. A personal site visit is required for the benefit of both the applicant and the faculty.

Key Information