Orthodontics - Certificate

Orthodontics includes the diagnosis, prevention, interception and correction of malocclusion, as well as neuromuscular and skeletal abnormalities of the developing or mature orofacial structures.

The program balances didactic, clinical and research components. It includes training in applied and radiographic anatomy, biomechanics, physics, biostatistics, research design, orthodontic technique, diagnosis, treatment planning and growth and development.

The completion of a Master of Science (MS) in Oral Biology is mandatory for this specialty program. The specialty certificate in Orthodontics, while a separate document from the MS degree in Oral Biology, is interwoven within the MS degree in such a way that the two are inseparable. One cannot be achieved without the other. Graduates of the 34.5-month regimen of study must complete a publishable MS thesis in order to receive their specialty certificate.

Application requirements include a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) (or foreign equivalent), National Board Dental Examinations for graduates of American Dental Association Council on Dental Accreditation accredited institutions, Graduate Record Examination scores, a competitive academic record and references. Applications are made through the ADEA Postdoctoral Application Support Service (PASS). The program also participates in MATCH. The deadline to apply is August 15 of each year, with a start date the following summer.

All courses within this program are taught face-to-face, on campus at the College of Dentistry in Dallas, Texas. This program may require off-campus assignments at local, Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex hospitals or dental clinics.

This program prepares students for the opportunity to pursue an occupational license. Please refer to the Notification for Students Pursuing an Occupational License in our catalog for additional information.

For more information about the Certificate in Orthodontics visit our Orthodontics website.