Advanced General Dentistry in Pediatric Dentistry

https://dentistry.utah.edu/education

Pediatric Dentistry is designed for students who are considering pediatric dentistry as a full-time career or as an adjunct to clinical practice. Accepted students will participate in additional pediatric dental opportunities as outlined by the Pediatric Dentistry Pathways Course Director. The emphasis will include observational and clinical experience in the specialty of pediatric dentistry through didactic, hospital, leadership, and research opportunities. The pathway will prepare students to have a more complete and deeper understanding of pediatric dentistry. Additionally, this opportunity should prepare them better for the challenges of a pediatric dental residency application and position.

The Pediatric Dentistry Pathway will provide the students with the opportunity to:

1. Observe dental care at an established Hospital-based pediatric dental clinic

2. Explore basic principles of pediatric dentistry including:

   1. Growth and development

   2. Prevention

   3. Diagnosis and treatment planning

   4. Oral pathology

   5. Behavior guidance

   6. Sedation and general anesthesia

   7. Dental trauma

   8. Restorative dentistry

   9. Special health care needs

   10. Pulp therapy

   11. Orthodontics and space maintenance

   12. Hospital Dentistry

Admissions requirements and selection method:

1. Matriculation as a D2 student at the UUSOD

2. In academic good standing (GPA: >3.0)

3. Approval of Group Practice Leader (GPL)

4. Submission of the standardized application with personal statement and relevant reflection paper from Pathways Engagement

5. Selection by the Pathways Course Director

6. Pathway-specific:

   1. Students must have a passion for periodontics and dental implant surgery.

   2. Three separate observations of a periodontist, for 2 hours minimum in their practice settings, is strongly urged prior to the start of the D3 year.

   3. Grades in Perio Classes Considered (but not critical). Continuation in the program is contingent on the following:

      1. Maintaining a GPA of >3.0

      2. Meeting the benchmarks for completing clinical competency assessments

      3. Maintaining professionalism standards for the UUSOD

      4. Participating fully in all aspects of academic and clinical activities

      5. Successfully completing all requirements established by the PCD