University of California, Los Angeles

The UCLA Periodontics Residency Program is a three-year, full-time specialty-training program. It is designed to provide an advanced level of education and clinical experiences in periodontology and surgical implantology for highly qualified graduate dentists who are interested in a specialty career.

The goal of the UCLA Periodontics Residency Program is to train residents in the comprehensive evaluation and treatment of patients with a variety of periodontal diseases and conditions. There is an emphasis on preservation of periodontal supporting structures and regeneration or reconstruction of lost periodontal/alveolar structures. Replacement of missing and hopeless teeth involves all aspects of surgery related to site preparation and placement of dental implants. Periodontal and implant treatment plans are developed and coordinated with other dental specialties as indicated by the individual patient’s needs. Patient management skills are stressed, and residents are encouraged to approach all aspects of care with a biological, scientifically-based rationale.

One of the major strengths of the UCLA Periodontics Residency Program is the quality and dedication of our clinical faculty. Two clinically active faculty members are available during each clinic session while nine residents are treating patients. As a result, residents get excellent faculty coverage, and they are exposed to a variety of treatment philosophies by periodontists who have diverse experiences.

Residents are prepared to treat patients with a variety of light to moderate conscious sedation techniques including nitrous oxide, oral, and intravenous conscious sedation. The program provides the didactic and clinical experiences required for a conscious sedation permit in the State of California.

A research thesis based on original work in clinical periodontics or on any of a number of related fields, but focused on problems relevant to periodontics, is required. The principles of scientific research design and evaluation are stressed. An advanced degree (MS or PhD) in oral biology can be pursued concurrently with the UCLA Periodontics Residency Program. Admission into this degree program requires a separate application through the UCLA Graduate Division.

During the course of the program, residents will devote approximately 50% of their time to clinical activities, 20% of their time in didactic courses, 20% of their time involved in research and independent study, and 10% of their time teaching periodontics in the predoctoral clinics. A Certificate of Specialty Training in Periodontics from the UCLA School of Dentistry is awarded upon completion of the program.

Selected candidates will be invited to interview. If you have been selected, you will be notified by telephone and/or email.

Timing of Interviews: September - October, 2024

The admissions committee considers the following criteria in its decisions:

• Academic achievement

• Clinical experience

• Leadership activities

• Research experience

• Teaching experience

• Demonstrated interest in periodontics