Louisiana State University Health New Orleans School of Dentistry

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 a Master of Science in Dentistry Degree with eligibility 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, etc.
2. Clinical training includes oral medicine, oral pathology, orofacial pain, periodontal microsurgery, periodontal practice management and in multidisciplinary aspects, such as periodontics-prosthetics, periodontics-endodontics, advanced 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 full- and part-time faculty members to gain experience in all periodontal techniques available, including periodontal microsurgery. Of the 5 full-time and 6 part-time faculty members in the department, 10 are diplomates of the American Board of Periodontology.
5. Research opportunities are available in either basic science or clinical areas to enable the student to accomplish a meaningful original research project.
6. Training and experience with IV sedation is also provided and all graduates are eligible to obtain their IV sedation certification.
7. Teaching experience in both the classroom and clinic to communicate to their peers the principles and skills acquired during training. In addition, faculty input into these various areas is supplemented by several guest lecturers during the year.

On average, two to three applicants are accepted annually. Candidates should possess competitive academic credentials, and should have demonstrated a definite interest in periodontics. All applicants must have passed the National Dental Board Exams. Additional experience beyond dental school (internship or residency, military service, private practice, graduate school, etc.), strengthens the applicant's credentials. A personal site visit/interview is required for the benefit of both the applicant and the faculty.

http://www.perio.org/education/LA-LSU.htm