Objectives

In meeting the overall goal of producing a proficient specialist in Orthodontics, the objectives of the postgraduate program which encompass the standards of established care include:

  • Mastery of preventive and interceptive orthodontic procedures in the primary and mixed dentitions required to properly manage the developing occlusion in children.
  • Mastery of multi-phased and growth modification orthodontic procedures in the growing patient required to properly manage the developing occlusion and skeletal dysplasia.
  • Mastery of orthodontic procedures in the young permanent dentition required to manage the occlusion in adolescents to include both extraction and non-extraction protocols.
  • Mastery of orthodontic procedures in the adult dentition required to properly manage occlusion considerations in older patients to include orthognatic surgery, prosthetic dentistry, periodontal disease, and temporomandibular dysfunction.
  • Ability to educate and guide patients and parents to accept and practice oral health care with preventive concepts, a foundation of clinical orthodontic practice.
  • Understanding the physical and chemical properties of dental materials used in orthodontic treatment and patient responses to these agents.
  • Knowledge of oral pathology and management procedures applicable to patient care.
  • Capability to diagnose traumatized and carious primary and permanent teeth with ability to maintain the teeth, pulp tissues, and periodontium in a healthy state during orthodontic treatment.
  • Understanding the growth and development of the stomatognathic system and the ability to provide treatment aimed at allowing optimal development of this system.
  • Familiarity with published literature pertinent to orthodontics and the motivation to remain abreast with and critically evaluate the literature.
  • Commitment to the implementation of community-based programs aimed at educating the public on oral health, dental, and orthodontic issues.
  • Preparation for managing a contemporary orthodontic practice relative to practice administration, efficient auxiliary utilization, and marketing.
  • Coordination of all objectives such that diagnosis, case analysis, treatment planning, and clinical management of dentofacial occlusion problems that occur in childhood, adolescence, and adulthood are grounded in a sound application of scientific knowledge which remains a state-of-the-art level through development of an attitude towards lifelong inquiry and study.