The postgraduate program in Orthodontics integrates basic science and clinical Orthodontics in a comprehensive curriculum, designed to develop clinically proficient specialists who possess a scholarly insight into Orthodontic theory as it relates to patient care. While the basic science courses build upon residents' predoctoral knowledge of oral biology and related areas, the major part of the program consists of clinical education and training.
Several popular corrective orthodontic regimens are taught, giving residents a thorough understanding of the respective merits of each treatment philosophy and the ability to apply them clinically. Since many corrective orthodontic problems involve adolescents, there is a strong emphasis on growth and development. Residents also gain experience in preventive and interceptive orthodontic care with preadolescents. The management of adult patients is also emphasized through courses such as TMJ therapy and orthognathic surgery. Other highlights of the program include:
- Experience in interdisciplinary care of patients requiring complex restorative dentistry or advanced periodontal therapy. A combined faculty from fixed prosthetics and orthodontics presents a one-year course in occlusion.
- Participation in monthly rotations at the Craniofacial Clinic at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, exposing residents to craniofacial anomalies and treatment and the team approach involved in treating such conditions.
- Instruction in computer applications for diagnosis, treatment planning, and practice management.
- Presentation of a course in gross anatomy of the head and neck.
The highly respected research environment at Penn Dental Medicine and throughout the University of Pennsylvania provides a valuable opportunity for students applying to residency programs to combine their specialty training with advanced research and academic opportunities.
Additional Program Options
Penn Dental Medicine also offers a Master of Science in Oral Biology (MSOB) and a Doctor of Science in Dentistry (DScD) that can be earned concurrent with a specialty certificate, preparing students to successfully enter the field of academic dentistry while also becoming skilled clinicians in specialty care. Through the MSOB and DScD programs, students are encouraged to pursue their individual research interests with projects that can span the diverse disciplines and research labs within Penn Dental Medicine's basic and clinical sciences and across the University.