The periodontology postgraduate program integrates the newest knowledge in the basic and applied biological sciences with modern approaches to the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal diseases. The curriculum combines clinical training in periodontics with a graduate academic program in oral and craniofacial sciences leading to an MS or PhD program, preparing you for a career in academia or clinical practice. Graduates of the program are eligible for examination by the American Board of Periodontology.
As part of the Department of Orofacial Sciences — which is responsible for teaching oral and craniofacial sciences, oral medicine, oral pathology, oral radiology and periodontology — the Division of Periodontology is able to integrate components of these disciplines into an exceptionally diverse postgraduate program. In addition to the 30-plus periodontists on faculty, the program draws on the expertise of many other clinicians and scientists across the department, including biochemists, microbiologists, cell biologists and others from virtually all dental specialties.
Curriculum
The Postgraduate Program in Periodontology is a full-time, 36-month course of study beginning July 1. The didactic portion of the curriculum emphasizes the biological aspects of the pathogenesis and treatment of oral diseases. As a postgraduate student, you will take advanced courses in oral microbiology and immunology, virology, oral pathology, oral medicine, cell and molecular biology, connective tissue biochemistry and biostatistics, which will give you the foundation to change your therapeutic approaches based on new data from well-controlled scientific studies.
In addition to the coursework, you will spend more than half of your time in clinical training, where you will gain experience in hard and soft tissue grafting, regeneration procedures and placement of osteointegrated dental implants, as well as in intravenous conscious sedation techniques.
Finally, you will complete a research project under a faculty member of your choosing, culminating in a thesis and a manuscript suitable for publication in the appropriate scientific literature. We offer extensive opportunities in clinical and basic science research.
SALARY*:
PGY 1: $71,760/yr.
PGY 2: $74,128/yr.
PGY 3: $76,574/yr.
*Subject to change.
Resources
From scientific journals to study aids, these organizations will be helpful to you as you embark on your career in periodontology.
American Academy of Periodontology
The professional organization for periodontists is dedicated to promoting excellence in the field. Visit the AAP website for scientific journals, career options and clinical and practice management resources
American Board of Periodontology
A specialty board of the American Dental Association, the ABP is responsible for administering the certification process. Its website has information about certification and the qualifying examination, including exam preparation.
