Orthodontics
The graduate program in orthodontics at the University of Tennessee begins in July of
each year and continues for 34 consecutive months until graduation. This period of
study provides for intensive instruction and training in the biological and clinical
sciences related to the specialty of orthodontics. The course of instruction is designed
to satisfy all requirements for eligibility for licensure as a specialist, the specialty
board in orthodontics, and the Master of Science degree. The program, fully accredited
by the American Dental Association, is well rounded and provides balanced training
in clinical orthodontics, the basic sciences, and research. Our goal is to prepare
the graduate to pursue many career possibilities: a clinical practice limited to orthodontics,
a researcher or a teacher of orthodontics.
In order for an application to be considered by the graduate program in orthodontics, the applicant must have the following credentials:
- DDS, DMD or equivalent degree from CODA accredited dental school
- 3.00 course work average on a 4.00 dental school grading system
- Rank in the upper 30% of his/her dental school graduating class
The Program participates in the Postdoctoral Application Support Service (PASS) and utilizes the National Resident Match Program in the selection of students.
ADEA Postdoctoral Application Support Service (ADEA PASS)
Phone: 617.612.2065
Website: http://www.adea.org/pass
Continuous full-time attendance is a requisite for the course of instruction which leads to a Master of Dental Science degree. Not more than four Masters' students are selected for matriculation each July. Students admitted to the program will be expected to demonstrate clinical proficiency in orthodontics and complete a thesis that is based on: 1) original research, 2) demonstrates individual thought, and 3) is of substantive literary and scientific merit.
Orthodontics was created as a specialty in dentistry to address complex problems which involve the growth and development of the facial structures and dentition; special emphasis was to be given to conditions that require tooth movement and alteration of the bones of the facial complex. In the Department of Orthodontics at the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry, we endeavor to provide high-level and up-to-date advanced education for dental graduates so that they become quality professionals dedicated to the practice and advancement of the specialty of orthodontics.
Our program, the oldest orthodontic program in the South, began training orthodontists in 1941. Over 300 dentists have studied and earned their advanced degrees at the University of Tennessee. Our alumni/alumnae have compiled an excellent record of accomplishments through their continued diligence in patient care, teaching, research, and service to the profession of dentistry and the specialty of orthodontics. We are proud of the achievements of our alums and are poised to prepare future dentists for continued learning, the search for knowledge, and the delivery of quality health care in orthodontics.
