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 60% of their time to clinical activities, 23% of their time in didactic courses, 10% of their time involved in research and independent study, and 7% 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. 

August to September 2025. 

Applicants can find more detailed information through the UCLA website. 

2 positions for graduates of CODA-accredited dental schools: 

https://dentistry.ucla.edu/academics-admissions/residency-training-programs/periodontics

Financial Arrangement: https://medschool.ucla.edu/education/medical-residencies-fellowships/incoming-residents/medical-resident-salary-benefits (subject to change without notice)

1 position for graduates of non-CODA-accredited dental schools

https://dentistry.ucla.edu/academics-admissions/programs-for-international-dentists/residency-programs/periodontics

Tuition and Program Fees:  $72,900 (PGY1), $76,500 (PGY2), $80,300 (PGY3) (subject to change without notice) 

No stipend will be provided to the position for graduates of non-CODA-accredited dental schools. 

International Student Fee: $1,300 (only for those requesting I-20s for F-1 student status)

Approximate TN Visa Fee: $2000 + Related Costs